Study Permit

A study permit is an official document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Here are the key aspects of obtaining a study permit for Canada:

Eligibility Requirements

• Acceptance by a DLI: You must have a letter of acceptance from a recognized Canadian educational institution.
• Proof of Financial Support: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
• No Criminal Record: You may be required to provide a police certificate to prove that you do not have a criminal record.
• Medical Exam: Depending on your country of origin, you might need to undergo a medical examination.
• Intent to Leave: You must show that you plan to leave Canada at the end of your studies.
• Processing Time: The processing time for study permits can vary; it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended start date.

Duration of the Permit

A study permit is generally valid for the duration of your study program, plus an additional 90 days. This allows you to prepare for your departure or apply for an extension or a different type of permit.

Work Opportunities

• On-Campus Work: Study permit holders can work on-campus without a separate work permit.
• Off-Campus Work: You may be eligible to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided you meet specific conditions.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of your study program.

Expedited Study Permit via the Student Direct Stream

If you are a legal resident of certain countries, you may qualify for a quicker study permit by applying online through the Student Direct Stream.

Responsibilities as a Student in Canada

While studying in Canada, you are expected to:

• Make steady progress toward completing your program.
• Abide by any conditions stated on your study permit.
• Cease your studies if you no longer meet the eligibility criteria.

Your study permit may include conditions such as:

• Permission to work in Canada.
• Restrictions on travel within Canada.
• A specific date by which you must leave Canada.
• The institution you are allowed to study at (must be a DLI specified on your permit). You will need to update your DLI in your IRCC account if you wish to change schools.
• Any requirements for an immigration medical exam.

Who Does Not Require a Study Permit in Canada

Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada, but exceptions include:

• Short-term Students: No study permit is needed for programs lasting six months or less.
• Family or Staff of Foreign Representatives: You may not require a study permit if you are a family member or staff of an accredited foreign representative in Canada. Contact your embassy to confirm.
• Members of Designated Foreign Armed Forces: If you are a member of a foreign military force designated under the Visiting Forces Act (VFA) on official duties in Canada, you do not need a study permit. A letter of acceptance from Canada’s Department of National Defence is recommended.
• Registered Indians in Canada: Those with Registered Indian status do not require a study permit, even if they are citizens of another country.
• Minor Children in Canada: Minor children do not need a study permit if they:
  • Are refugees or refugee claimants.
  • Have parents who are refugees or claimants.
  • Have parents who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
  • Attend preschool, primary, or secondary school in Canada, accompanied by a parent authorized to work or study.
  • Attend school unaccompanied in Canada.

Why Minors Might Still Want a Study Permit

Having a valid study permit may allow minors to:

• Obtain a co-op work permit for secondary school.
• Access certain social services in some provinces or territories.
• Transition between education levels without needing a new permit.

Once minors reach the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province), they must apply for a study permit to continue their studies.

Temporary Residents and Asylum Seekers

Temporary residents or asylum seekers do not need a study permit for French language and cultural courses in Quebec. Eligibility requires being a temporary resident or asylum seeker in Canada.

Settlement and Integration Courses

If you are taking settlement and integration courses provided by provincial or territorial governments, a study permit is not necessary.

Workers Eligible to Study Without a Permit

You may be able to study without a study permit if you:

• Hold a valid work permit issued on or before June 7, 2023.
• Have a letter issued on or before June 7, 2023, authorizing you to work while your work permit application is processed. This letter can be used while awaiting a decision on your work permit extension.