Study Visa/ Permit

A Canadian Study Permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study in Canada. This permit is required for most international students who wish to pursue academic, vocational, or professional training in Canada for more than six months.

A study permit is typically required if:

• Your Program Lasts More Than Six Months: If you plan to study in Canada for more than six months, a study permit is mandatory.

• You Are a Full-Time Student: Enrolling in a full-time program.

• You Plan to Work While Studying: A study permit may also allow you to work part-time on or off-campus, provided you meet certain eligibility criteria.

Some exceptions include short-term courses that last six months or less and certain exchange programs. However, even in these cases, having a study permit can be beneficial if you decide to extend your studies or work while studying.

• Work While Studying: Most study permits allow international students to work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays.

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility: Graduates from eligible programs may apply for a PGWP, which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation.

• Pathway to Permanent Residence: Studying in Canada can be the first step towards permanent residency. Programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) allow graduates with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residency.

To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must:

• Have a Letter of Acceptance: You need a valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.

• Prove Financial Support: You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members, and return transportation costs.

• Meet Health and Security Requirements: You may need to undergo a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates to prove you are admissible to Canada.

• Satisfy the Immigration Officer: You must convince the immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies, even if you plan to apply for permanent residence later.

Before applying for a study permit, you must secure a letter of acceptance from a DLI. This is a critical first step, as your application cannot proceed without it.

Gather all required documents, including your letter of acceptance, proof of financial support, passport, and any other required documentation such as a study plan or a letter of explanation.

Applications for study permits can be submitted online or through a visa application center. Ensure that your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays or refusals.

Depending on your nationality, you may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos) as part of the application process.

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision from IRCC. Processing times can vary depending on your country of residence and the complexity of your application.

If your application is approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. You must present this letter to the immigration officer upon arrival in Canada, who will then issue your study permit.