Canada Immigration - Study Permit
Some of the world's best universities are located in some of the world's most livable cities in Canada. Each year, over 200,000 international students travel to Canada in pursuit of a globally-recognized education and the possibility of settling here.
International students who wish to study in Canada must get a valid study permit from an abroad Canadian Visa Office. A study visa is not required for programs shorter than six months. A valid study permit can be extended while you are still in Canada, therefore it is important to obtain one if you intend to remain in Canada to continue your education.
quick facts
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Processing time: 4-6 months
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Language test requirements: CLB 5 or CLB 6 (program specific).
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Valid till: 90 days after the end of your study program.
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Minimum GCI: C$10000.
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Minimum length of course to apply for PGWP: 8 months from a DLI.
What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Study Permit for Canada?
In order to be eligible to submit an application for a Canadian study permit:
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You must have a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
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You must provide sufficient financial resources to support your stay in Canada.
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You should not have any previous criminal charges. You will need to provide a Police clearance certificate.
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You must pass a medical examination if required.
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You must convince an immigration officer that you intend to leave Canada after your study permit expires.
The applicant may also be required to submit the following supporting documents:
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Passport for the applicant and every family member included on the application;
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Two passport photos for the applicant and each family member included on the application, with the full name and date of birth written on the back;
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Photocopy of marriage certificate, if applicable; and,
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Any further documents required by specific visa offices.
In addition, your responsibilities include:
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Enroll at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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Make progress towards finishing your study program
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Adhere to all conditions listed on their study permit
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Immediately stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements and
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Leave Canada when your permit expires
Steps to apply for a Study Permit for Canada?
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Check your eligibility: Check that you are eligible to apply for a study permit to study in Canada by making sure you meet the conditions. You will need a letter of acceptance from a DLI, evidence that you are receiving financial support, and a variety of other documentation, the exact nature of which may vary depending on your country of citizenship and residence.
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Prepare your documents: Make sure you have collected all necessary documents.
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Submit your study permit application:
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Online
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Paper-based application: Mail a complete hard copy of your application to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) assigned to your country.
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Temporary Resident Visa: Apply for a TRV (country specific).
Can I apply for a study permit from inside Canada?
You can apply for a study permit from inside Canada when:
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You or your family members already hold a valid work or study permit;
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You are a pre-school, primary or secondary level student already studying inside Canada;
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You are a visitor or an exchange student studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI);
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You have already completed a short-term course or program of study that is a prerequisite to your admission at a DLI;
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You or your family members hold a temporary resident permit (TRP) valid for a minimum of six months;
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You are a Refugee claimant;
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You are awaiting a decision on your In-Canada permanent resident application along with your family members who are considered eligible for permanent residents (PR) status as - a live-in caregiver, spouse or common-law partner, protected person, and humanitarian and compassionate considerations (H&C);
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Your study permits was authorized by a visa office abroad, where the permit was not issued at a port of entry;
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You are a family member of an athlete on a Canadian-based team, media representative, member of the clergy, or military personnel assigned to Canada.
What is the Student Direct Stream for Canada?
Depending on where you live, you may be able to get your study permit faster through the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Accordingly your visa application may be processed within 20 calendar days. However, some applications may take longer.
To get faster processing, you must:
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Give your biometrics as soon as possible
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Meet all the eligibility requirements
Student Direct Stream (SDS) Participating Countries:
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India
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China
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The Philippines
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Pakistan
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Vietnam
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Morocco
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Senegal
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Brazil
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Colombia
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Peru
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Antigua and Barbuda
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Costa Rica
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Trinidad and Tobago
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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Need help in applying for a Study Permit for Canada? Hire an authorized paid representative.
IMMERGITY Immigration Consultant are very experienced with the application process and can help you navigate the system. We will also provide valuable insights and tips on how to increase your chances of success. Get in touch now.
If you're thinking of hiring a representative, be sure to check that they're authorized by IRCC. You can verify our credentials by clicking here.
Hiring a representative is not required, but it can be helpful, especially if you're not familiar with the application process. If you decide to hire a representative, be sure to choose someone who you trust and who you feel comfortable working with.