If you are planning to study in Canada as an international student, you will need a study permit. A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows you to stay in Canada for the duration of your studies. In this blog post, we will explain how to apply for a study permit, what documents you need, and the benefits of having a study permit.
What is a Canada study permit?
A Canada study permit is not a visa but a document that permits you to study in Canada. It does not grant you entry to Canada. You will also need a valid visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, depending on your country of citizenship. A study permit only allows you to study in Canada at a designated learning institution (DLI). A DLI is a school, college, university, or other educational institution approved by the Canadian government to host international students.
To be eligible for a study permit, you must:
– Have a letter of acceptance from a DLI
– Prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
– Be in good health and undergo a medical exam if required
– Be law-abiding and have no criminal record
– Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies.
How to apply for a Canada study permit?
The process of applying for a Canada study permit can be summarized in five steps:
Choose a designated learning institution (DLI) and get accepted.
A DLI is an educational institution approved by the Canadian government to host international students. You can find a list of DLIs on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once you choose a DLI, you will need to apply for admission and get an acceptance letter from them. This letter is one of the main documents you will need for your study permit application.
Gather the required documents
Apart from the acceptance letter, you will also need the following documents for your study permit application:
- A valid passport or travel document
- Proof of financial support, such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship letters, showing that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
- A letter of explanation, which is an optional document that allows you to explain your study plan and any other relevant information to the visa officer
- Proof of English or French language proficiency, such as test results from IELTS, TOEFL, or TEF, depending on the language of instruction at your DLI
- Medical exam results and police certificates, if required by IRCC, based on your country of origin or residence
– Any other documents requested by IRCC or the visa office in your country
Submit your online application
The easiest and fastest way to apply for a Canada study permit is online through the IRCC website. You will need to create an account, fill out an online form, upload your documents, pay the application fee (CAD 150), and submit your application. You may also be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at your country’s designated service point.
Wait for the decision
The processing time for a Canada study permit varies depending on your country of origin and the volume of applications received by IRCC. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website. You will receive an email notification when your application is approved or rejected. If approved, you will receive a letter of introduction (also known as the port of entry letter) and a TRV or eTA, if applicable.
Travel to Canada and get your study permit.
The final step is to travel to Canada with your letter of introduction, passport, TRV or eTA, and any other documents the border officer requires. You will present these documents at the port of entry (airport or land border) and receive your actual study permit as a paper document or an electronic record.
Depending on your situation, you may also need to submit additional documents or information, such as:
- a letter of explanation if you are applying for a short-term program or if you have any gaps in your studies
- a valid Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you plan to study in Quebec
- a custodian declaration if you are a minor (under 18 years old)
- a copy of your spouse’s or common-law partner’s work or study permit if they are accompanying you to Canada
How long does it take to process a study permit application?
The processing time for a study permit application varies depending on where you apply from and how busy the visa office is. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website. However, these are only estimates and not guarantees. It is advisable to apply as early as possible, at least three months before your intended start date of studies.
Some applicants may be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream (SDS). The SDS is available for legal residents of certain countries who meet additional requirements, such as having an acceptance letter from an eligible post-secondary DLI, paying the first year of tuition fees in advance, and having a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000. The SDS aims to process applications within 20 calendar days.
What are the benefits of having a study permit?
Having a study permit allows you to:
- Study in Canada for the duration of your program plus 90 days (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first)
- Work part-time on-campus or off-campus up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks
- Apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) after completing your studies, which can help you gain Canadian work experience and qualify for permanent residence
- Bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada (they may be eligible for an open work permit or a visitor visa)
What are some tips to build a strong Canada study permit application?
To increase your chances of getting approved for a Canada study permit, here are some tips to follow:
- Apply as early as possible. Ideally, you should apply at least three months before your intended start date of studies.
- Be consistent and honest. Ensure that all the information and documents you provide are accurate and match each other. Do not lie or omit any relevant details that could affect your eligibility or credibility.
- Show strong ties to your home country. The visa officer will assess whether you are likely to return to your home country after your studies or overstay in Canada. You can provide evidence of family ties, property ownership, employment prospects, or future plans in your home country to demonstrate strong ties.
- Explain your study plan clearly. The visa officer will also evaluate whether you have a genuine intention and ability to study in Canada. To explain your study plan clearly, you can use the letter of explanation to state why you chose Canada, your DLI, and your program of study, how they relate to your academic background and career goals, and how you will finance your studies and living expenses.
- Seek professional guidance. If unsure or confused about any aspect of the Canada study permit application process, you can seek professional guidance from a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer. They can help you prepare your application, review your documents, and advise you on the best action.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada can be a rewarding experience that can open up many opportunities for your future. However, before starting your studies, you must obtain a study permit from IRCC. To apply for a study permit, you will need to have a letter of acceptance from a DLI, prove that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family members (if applicable) and meet other eligibility criteria. You can apply online or on paper, but online applications are faster and easier. You may also qualify for expedited processing through the SDS if you meet certain requirements. A study permit will allow you to study, work, and live in Canada for the duration of your program and beyond.
References
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html
- https://www.canadim.com/blog/5-steps-canada-study-permit/
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit.html
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents.html
- https://www.applyproof.com/blog/building-a-strong-canadian-study-permit-application
- https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/before-avant/permits-visas-permis.aspx?lang=eng
- https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/student.asp
