Canada Student Visa (Study Permit)
A Canadian study permit allows foreign nationals to pursue academic, professional, or vocational training at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. It is a temporary immigration status and is required for most full-time programs that exceed six months in duration. While often referred to as a “student visa,” the official term is study permit.
Who Qualifies for a Canada Student Visa
To qualify for a study permit, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
- Proof of Funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
- No Criminal Record and provide police clearance certificates, if required
- Medical Exam, if applicable
- Proof of Intent to Leave Canada at the end of the study period
- Strong Ties to Home Country to demonstrate non-immigrant intent
Applicants must also comply with any additional entry requirements based on their country of citizenship.
Required Documents for a Canada Student Visa
Standard documentation for a study permit application includes:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor affidavit)
- Completed study permit application forms (IMM 1294)
- Receipt of payment for application and biometrics fees
- Letter of explanation or statement of purpose
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
- Medical examination results (if required)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
Application Process Timeline
The process of obtaining a Canadian study permit typically follows these steps:
- Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) – 1 to 3 monthsSecure admission and receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
- Prepare Financial and Supporting Documents – 2 to 4 weeks Gather proof of funds, personal documents, and academic records.
- Submit Study Permit Application – Online or paper application Complete form IMM 1294, pay fees, and upload supporting documents
- Biometrics and Medical Examination – 1 to 3 weeks Schedule and complete as required by IRCC.
- Wait for Processing – 6 to 12 weeks on average Processing times vary by country of residence and time of year.
- Receive Decision and Port of Entry (POE) Letter If approved, applicants receive a POE letter to present when entering Canada.
- Study Permit Issued at Port of Entry The actual study permit is granted upon arrival in Canada.
Study Permit Extension and Change of Conditions
If a student’s program extends beyond the original permit expiry or they change their institution or level of study, an extension or amendment must be requested from IRCC. Applications to extend a study permit should be submitted at least 30 days before the current permit expires.
Additionally, students may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or a change of status (e.g., to a visitor or worker) while inside Canada, provided eligibility conditions are met.
Duration of Stay
A study permit is generally valid for the duration of the academic program plus 90 days. The additional period allows time to prepare to leave Canada or apply for a post-graduation permit or other status change.
If a student changes programs or institutions, updates to the study permit may be required.
Extensions can be applied for from within Canada.
Work Opportunities
International students in Canada may be eligible for the following work options:
- On-Campus Work: Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions; full-time during breaks.
- Off-Campus Work: Also up to 20 hours per week during school terms, provided eligibility criteria are met.
- Co-op/Internship Programs: When part of the academic curriculum, with a separate co- op work permit.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Up to 3 years of open work permit after program completion, based on program length.
Work experience gained during or after studies can support eligibility for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
