Study in Canada: How to Get a Student Visa

Canada consistently ranks among the world's top destinations for international education, offering high-quality programs, diverse cultural experiences, and potential pathways to permanent residency. Securing a Canadian study permit is the crucial first step toward achieving your educational goals in this welcoming North American nation.

Canadian Study Permit: The Essentials

A Canadian study permit is the official document that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. While often referred to as a "student visa", the technical term in Canada is "study permit." The visa itself is simply the document that allows you to enter Canada, while the study permit authorizes your stay as a student.

It's important to note that not all educational programs require a study permit. Short courses under 6 months can typically be completed on a visitor visa. However, if you might want to continue studying or work part-time during your studies, applying for a study permit is recommended even for shorter programs.

Eligibility Requirements for a Canadian Study Permit

Before applying for a Canadian study permit, you must meet several fundamental eligibility criteria established by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

1. Acceptance at a Designated Learning Institution

You must have been accepted at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs, and post-secondary institutions must have this designation to host international students.

2. Proof of Financial Support

You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to pay your:

• Tuition fees (as indicated in your acceptance letter)
• Living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members
• Return transportation costs

As of 2025, IRCC requires proof of at least CAD $20,635 per year (plus tuition) for a single student, with additional amounts for accompanying family members. This amount is subject to change, so always check the latest requirements.

3. Good Health and Character

You may need to:

• Complete a medical examination by an IRCC-approved physician
• Provide police certificates to demonstrate you have no criminal record

4. Genuine Intent to Leave Canada

As a temporary resident, you must convince immigration officials that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. This doesn't mean you can't later apply for permanent residence, but at the time of your study permit application, your stated intent must be to return home after completing your studies.

The Study Permit Application Process

The application process for a Canadian study permit involves several key steps that must be carefully completed:

1. 1. Secure Admission to a DLI

   Before applying for a study permit, you must first apply to and receive an acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution. This letter is a crucial document in your study permit application.

2. 2. Create an Online Account

   Most applicants apply online through the IRCC portal. Create an account and gather all necessary documents in digital format before beginning your application.

3. 3. Complete the Application Forms

   The main form is IMM 1294 (Application for a Study Permit Made Outside of Canada). Answer all questions accurately and completely, as inconsistencies or omissions can lead to refusal.

4. 4. Pay the Required Fees

   The study permit processing fee is currently CAD $150. If biometrics are required (typically valid for 10 years), there is an additional fee of CAD $85 for an individual or CAD $170 for a family.

5. 5. Attend Biometrics Appointment

   After submitting your application, you may receive instructions to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Application Support Center (ASC).

6. 6. Possible Interview

   In some cases, you may be called for an interview at the local Canadian embassy or consulate. This is more common for applicants from countries with high refusal rates.

7. 7. Receive Decision

   If approved, you'll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and, if applicable, a temporary resident visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

8. 8. Arrive in Canada

   Present your documents to immigration officials at the Canadian port of entry, who will issue your actual study permit.

Essential Documents for Your Study Permit Application

A complete and well-organized application package significantly increases your chances of approval. The following documents are typically required:

Proof of Financial Support Details

Financial documentation is scrutinized carefully by visa officers. Acceptable forms include:

• Bank statements from the past 4-6 months showing sufficient funds
• Proof of a Canadian bank account with transferred funds
• Proof of a student/education loan
• Paid tuition and housing fees
• A letter from a person/institution providing financial support
• Proof of funding from within Canada if you have a scholarship or Canadian-funded program

Working While Studying in Canada

One of the advantages of the Canadian study permit is the built-in work authorization it provides. Understanding these work privileges can help you plan your finances and gain valuable Canadian work experience:

On-Campus Employment

As a full-time student at a post-secondary institution, you can work on-campus without additional work permits. These positions include:

• Jobs in campus buildings (libraries, cafeterias, bookstores)
• Work for faculty members (research assistants, teaching assistants)
• Jobs with student organizations

Off-Campus Employment

Your study permit also authorizes off-campus work under these conditions:

• You must be a full-time student at an eligible institution
• You can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions
• You can work full-time during scheduled breaks (spring break, summer vacation, winter holidays)
• Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) must be obtained before beginning work

Co-op/Internship Work Permits

If your program includes a mandatory work component such as a co-op term or internship, you'll need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit. This is:

• Free of charge
• Required even if the work represents less than 50% of your program
• Only available for work that is an essential part of your academic program

Post-Graduation Pathways in Canada

Canada offers attractive post-graduation options that make it a particularly appealing destination for international students planning long-term career and immigration goals:

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP allows graduates from eligible Canadian DLIs to remain in Canada and gain valuable work experience after completing their studies:

Pathways to Permanent Residency

Canadian work experience gained through the PGWP can significantly enhance your eligibility for permanent residency through programs such as:

• Express Entry - Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) - Many provinces have immigration streams specifically for international graduates
• Quebec Experience Program - For those who studied in Quebec and meet language requirements
• Atlantic Immigration Program - For graduates from institutions in Atlantic provinces

Canadian education and work experience are highly valued in immigration programs, often awarding significant points in selection systems. This creates a clear path from student to permanent resident for those who plan accordingly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Study Permit Applications

Many study permit applications are refused due to preventable errors. Avoid these common pitfalls: