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Study Permit
Study Permit
If you are a foreign student looking to study in Canada, you need to secure a study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC grants study permits to eligible prospective students based on a number of factors. To be eligible to apply for a study permit in Canada, you need:
To secure an a letter of acceptance from a designated educational institution in Canada recognised by IRCC and Canadian government.
To have your criminal and background record check done and obtain a police clearance certificate.
To clear your medical exam.
Prove that you will leave the country after the study permit expires or apply for a post graduate work permit if eligible.
Do I need a study permit?
Generally, foreign nationals must obtain a study permit in order to study in Canada.
However, foreign nationals may be exempted from requiring a study permit in the following situations:
- Family members or private staff accompanying a foreign representative accredited by Global Affairs Canada; or
- Members of the armed forces of a country or territory designated for the purposes of the Visiting Forces Act.
How do I apply for a study permit?
Before applying for a study permit at a Canadian visa office, you must first get a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
The letter must be issued by the Canadian institution (e.g. school district, University, etc.) on official letterhead, show the exact amount of tuition fees you are required to pay, the anticipated starting and finishing dates and the date by which you need to register.
Once you have your acceptance letter, you can complete and submit an application for a study permit.
Do you intend to study in Quebec?
In order to study in Quebec, students must obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) issued by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). The educational institution should provide the student with all the details related to applying for Quebec. For residents of countries or territories such as France, Austria, Mexico or the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, where there is a Quebec Immigration Service (SIQ), they can apply there directly for a CAQ.
Students do not have to wait for the actual CAQ before applying for their study permit. They can submit MIFI’s letter of approval, or proof that they have submitted a CAQ application.
Are there any conditions on my study permit?
As a study permit holder, you must remain enrolled at a DLI and make reasonable and timely progress towards completing your program. Failing to do so may lead to your removal from Canada. For post-secondary study permit holders, the DLI will report your continued academic enrolment and status to us.
An officer may also impose, change, or cancel conditions on your study permit. These may include one or more of the following:
- the type of studies or course you may take;
- the educational institution you may attend;
- the location of your studies;
- the time and period of your studies;
- the time and place at which you shall report for medical examination or observation;
- the time and place at which you shall report to present evidence of compliance with applicable conditions;
- the work conditions attached to your study permit;
- the prohibition of engaging in employment;
- the duration of your stay in Canada.
