STUDY IN CANADA
What is a Canadian study permit?
A study permit is an immigration document that authorizes a foreign national to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Most international students must obtain a study permit before travelling to Canada.
A study permit is not the same as a visa. Depending on your nationality, IRCC may also issue a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization that allows you to travel to Canada. The study permit governs your authorization and conditions as a student after you enter Canada.
Who may qualify to study in Canada?
Although requirements vary according to the applicant and the proposed studies, a study permit applicant will generally need to:
- obtain a valid letter of acceptance from a Canadian DLI;
- obtain a provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), unless an exemption applies;
- demonstrate sufficient funds without relying on employment in Canada;
- satisfy the officer that the study plan is credible and consistent with the applicant’s background and objectives;
- show that the applicant will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay if no further status is obtained;
- have valid immigration status when applying from a country where the applicant is not a citizen;
- complete biometrics, an immigration medical examination or police documentation when required; and
- meet any additional instructions applicable to the country of application.
Meeting a checklist does not automatically result in approval. IRCC assesses the application as a whole.
How should I choose my school and study program?
The right Canadian program should make academic, professional and financial sense for you. Before accepting an offer or paying a substantial tuition deposit, consider:
- how the program connects with your previous education and work experience;
- whether it advances a realistic career objective;
- whether the institution and program are eligible for a post-graduation work permit, if that is important to your plans;
- whether a field-of-study requirement applies to future PGWP eligibility;
- whether the program may support an eligible spousal open work permit;
- the total tuition and cost of living, not only the initial deposit;
- the strength and source of your available funds; and
- whether the location and level of study are reasonable for your circumstances.
How much money do I need for a Canada study permit?
You must demonstrate enough money for at least your first-year tuition, living expenses and transportation for yourself and accompanying family members. You may have a financial supporter for your application, one who can help you with your expenses in Canada. This is usually a relative or employer.
Can you work while studying in Canada?
Yes. Eligible students may work on or off campus under specified conditions. Off-campus work during regular academic sessions is generally limited to 24 hours per week. Off-campus work during school breaks are not capped.
Despite being able to work, your study permit application must still show that you can afford your studies without depending on Canadian employment.
Can you bring your family members to Canada on a study permit?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can accompany you to Canada, along with your minor dependent children. Your spouse or partner may be eligible for an open work permit allowing him to work full-time depending on your study program. Your minor dependent children can study for free.
How can a Canadian education help me become a permanent resident of Canada?
A Canadian education provides an advantage by functioning as a multi-step gateway to permanent residency (PR). While holding a Canadian degree or diploma does not automatically guarantee PR, it establishes the critical foundation needed to qualify for federal and provincial economic immigration pathways.
The most significant benefit of studying at an eligible Canadian institution is the ability to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows you to stay in Canada and work full-time for virtually any employer after graduation. Depending on your program, the permit can be valid for up to three years. Canadian work experience is greatly favoured for permanent residence applications.
In addition, many Canadian provinces run exclusive immigration streams tailored specifically for international students who graduate from institutions within their borders. Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba allow local graduates with a job offer (and sometimes without one) to bypass the standard Express Entry system entirely or receive a nomination that virtually guarantees PR.
How long is the processing time and what are the processing fees?
Processing times vary depending on the type of application you submit and where it is processed. Usually, processing takes anywhere between 1 to 3 months.
IRCC application fees: Processing fees depend on the number of applicants included in the application. You can view the complete and updated list of IRCC fees here.
What are the key considerations in submitting a study permit application?
The requirements might look simple on paper, but often applications are rejected because the documents submitted were inaccurate, incomplete, or non-compliant. Here are some key considerations when applying for a study permit to Canada:
- What is the risk assessment for your application and how can these weaknesses be addressed in the application?
- Is your study program and study plan well explained and defended in the application?
- Are your funds properly document, including support from parents, spouses, and other sources?
- Are your forms and documents complete, accurate, and well-presented?
LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN.
We firmly believe that your success is our success. We’ll strategize on your migration plan, identify the right pathway for you, and ensure you take the fastest route to Canadian permanent residency.
We commit to ensuring that your application package will be accurate, complete, and at its strongest to avoid delays and errors that waste your time and resources. Our goal is to be able to say to you, “Congratulations on your permanent residency!”
