Study Permit in Canada

Planning to study in Canada? You’re not alone. Every year, over 800,000 international students choose Canada for its:

• High-quality education
• Safe and welcoming environment
• Opportunity to work during and after studies
• Clear pathways to permanent residency

If you’re planning to study in Canada for more than six months, you’ll most likely need a study permit ,  and in many cases, a student visa as well. These documents work together to enable you to enter Canada and stay legally while completing your studies.

But before you pack your bags, you’ll need to understand two important documents: the study permit and the student visa.

Here’s what you should know upfront:

• A study permit lets you stay in Canada to study.
• A student visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa) allows you to enter Canada.
• In most cases, you’ll need both to begin your studies.
  

This guide explains the differences between them, who requires a study permit, how to apply, the processing time, and the rights you have as a student, all based on official Canadian government sources.

Overview

Feature	Details
Who Needs It	Most international students studying in Canada for more than 6 months
Document Name	Study Permit (plus a visa or eTA for entry, depending on your country)
Processing Time	Varies by country; usually a few weeks to a few months
Application Fee	CAD $150 (standard study permit application fee)
Validity Period	Length of your study program plus 90 days
Work Eligibility	Up to 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during scheduled breaks

Student Visa and Study Permit

The terms student visa and study permit are often used interchangeably, but in Canada, they refer to two different things, and it’s important to understand both before you apply.

At a glance:

• You need a study permit to stay in Canada and attend school.
• You may also need a student visa (TRV or eTA) to enter Canada, depending on your citizenship.
• Both are typically issued together when your study permit application is approved.

What Is a Study Permit?

A study permit is the official document issued by the Government of Canada that allows you to stay in the country while you study at a designated learning institution (DLI).
It does not allow you to enter Canada.

Key points:

• Required for most full-time programs longer than 6 months
• Issued after your study plan is approved
• Let you remain in Canada legally as a student
• Includes conditions like work eligibility and required school attendance

What Is a Student Visa?

A student visa usually refers to the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) that lets you enter Canada.

• The TRV is a travel document, not a study authorization
• You may need a TRV or eTA, depending on your nationality
• It’s issued automatically when your study permit is approved ,  you don’t need to apply for it separately

Study Permit vs. Student Visa Key Differences

Aspect	Study Permit	Student Visa (TRV/eTA)
Purpose	Allows you to study and stay in Canada	Allows you to enter Canada
Issued By	IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)	IRCC, as part of the study permit process
Valid For	Duration of study program + 90 days	Entry into Canada (single or multiple entry)
Apply Separately?	Yes, you must apply directly for a study permit	No , it’s included automatically with permit approval
Required for All?	Yes, for most programs over 6 months	Only if you're from a visa-required country

Who Needs a Study Permit in Canada?

If you’re an international student planning to study in Canada for more than six months, you’ll likely need a study permit. However, there are a few exceptions.

You Need a Study Permit If:

• Your study program is longer than 6 months
• You’re enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• You’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• You plan to work while studying in Canada (on- or off-campus)
• You want to stay in Canada after completing your studies (e.g., apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit)

You May NOT Need a Study Permit If:

• Your program lasts 6 months or less
• You’re part of a foreign armed forces program
• You’re a family member or staff of a foreign representative accredited by Global Affairs Canada
• You’re a minor child already in Canada in some special situations (e.g., with parents in legal status)
• You’re only taking non-academic or recreational courses that aren’t part of a formal program

Eligibility Requirements for a Canadian Study Permit

To get approved for a study permit in Canada, you must meet certain eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

Basic Eligibility Criteria

• Have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
• Prove you have enough money to:
  • Pay your tuition fees
  • Cover your living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members
  • Pay for return transportation for yourself (and any family members)
• Have no criminal record and provide a police certificate (if required)
• Be in good health and get a medical exam (if required)
• Convince an immigration officer that:
  • You will leave Canada when your permit expires
  • Your purpose of visit is genuine (study, not other motives)

Financial Requirements (Proof of Funds)

As of 2024, the minimum financial requirement outside Quebec is:

• Single student: CAD$20,635 per year (excluding tuition)
• With one family member: Add CAD$6,885
• Each additional family member: Add CAD$3,450

Note: These figures are updated regularly by IRCC. Always check the latest numbers before applying.

Other Documents You May Need

Depending on your country of residence, you may also need:

• A custodian declaration (for minors)
• A letter of explanation (showing why you want to study in Canada)
• A Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you’re planning to study in Quebec

How to Apply for a Study Permit

Applying for a Canadian study permit involves several important steps. It’s best to prepare carefully and submit all required documents to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Get a Letter of Acceptance
   
   • Apply and get accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
   • You cannot apply for a study permit without this letter.
     
2. Gather Required Documents
   
   • Valid passport or travel document
   • Letter of acceptance from your DLI
   • Proof of financial support
   • Passport-sized photos
   • Immigration medical exam results (if required)
   • Police certificates (if requested)
   • Any additional documents requested by your country’s visa office
3. Complete the Application
   • Apply online through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
   • Paper applications are possible, but online is faster and recommended.
4. Pay the Application Fee
   • The standard fee for a study permit is CAD $150.
   • Biometrics fees may apply depending on your nationality.
5. Submit Biometrics
   • Many applicants need to provide fingerprints and a photo at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC).
6. Wait for Processing
   • Processing times vary by country. Check current times on the IRCC website.
   • You may be asked for an interview or additional documents.
7. Receive Your Study Permit
   • If approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
   • The actual study permit is issued when you arrive in Canada.

Important Tips

• Apply as early as possible ,  some permits take weeks or months to process.
• Double-check that all documents are complete and accurate.
• Keep copies of all your application materials.
• Follow instructions carefully to avoid delays.

Student Visa Processing Time and Fees

How Long Does It Take?

• Processing times vary depending on your country and whether you’re applying from inside or outside Canada.
• IRCC keeps these times updated weekly; you can check the current times on their official site.
• The clock starts once your complete application is received (online submission or mail arrival).
• If you’re applying from abroad, expect slower processing due to international mail and local visa office review.

How Much Does It Cost?

• Study permit application fee: CAD 150 per person
• Biometrics fee: CAD 85 for individuals, CAD 170 for families applying together
• Restoration of student status (if you’re out of status): CAD 389.75 (includes permit fee)
• If needed, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) fee may apply ,  separate, typically around CAD 100.

Work Eligibility While Studying in Canada

International students in Canada may be allowed to work during their studies, but there are specific rules and conditions you must follow.

On-Campus Work

You can work on campus without a separate work permit if:

• Be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI)
• A valid study permit
• Social Insurance Number (SIN)

On-campus work includes positions with:

• The school itself
• Faculty member
• Private business operating on campus
• Student organization

There is no limit to the number of hours you can work on campus.

Off-Campus Work

You may also work off-campus without a separate work permit if:

• A study permit includes a condition that says you can work off-campus
• You are a full-time student at a DLI in a program that is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
• You have started your studies
• Have a valid SIN

You are allowed to work:

• up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions
• full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter or summer holidays

Important note: If you stop studying full-time or transfer to a school that is not a DLI, you lose your eligibility to work off campus.

Work as Part of a Co-op or Internship

If your study program includes a required co-op or internship, you must apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.

To qualify:

• The work must be an essential part of your academic program
• You must have a letter from your school confirming that the work placement is required
• The co-op or internship must not exceed 50% of your total study program

After Graduation

Graduating from a Canadian institution opens the door to valuable work experience and even long-term immigration options. Here’s what you need to know after completing your studies.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows eligible graduates to stay and work in Canada after finishing their study program. It’s a one-time, open work permit that lets you gain Canadian work experience.

To qualify for the PGWP, you must:

• have completed a program of at least 8 months at a designated learning institution (DLI)
• apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation (such as a transcript or official letter) that you’ve met all requirements for graduation
• have held a valid study permit during your studies

Length of the PGWP:

• If your program was 8 months to less than 2 years: you may get a work permit for the same length as your study program.
• If your program was 2 years or more: you may be eligible for a 3-year work permit.
• If you completed more than one eligible program: you may combine their durations for a longer permit.

Note: You cannot get a PGWP if you studied English or French as a second language, took general interest courses, or participated in a program at a non-eligible institution.

Transition to Permanent Residency

Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP can help you qualify for permanent residency through programs such as:

• Canadian Experience Class (under Express Entry)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Quebec Experience Program (if you studied in Quebec)

These pathways value Canadian education and work experience and may award additional points for both under Canada’s points-based immigration system.

Key steps toward permanent residency:

• Improve your language test scores (IELTS or TEF)
• Gain full-time, skilled work experience in Canada
• Create a strong Express Entry profile or apply to a provincial stream

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Canada remains one of the most attractive study destinations in the world, thanks to its high-quality education system, multicultural environment, and clear pathways to work and immigration after graduation. Whether you’re planning a short-term academic program or aiming for long-term settlement, understanding the student visa and study permit process is the first and most essential step.

Here’s what you should do next:

• Review the eligibility requirements and ensure your chosen institution is a designated learning institution (DLI)
• Prepare a complete application with all required documents and proof of financial support
• Apply as early as possible to account for processing delays
• Learn about your work rights during and after your studies
• Explore immigration pathways if you’re considering staying in Canada after graduation

For accurate and up-to-date guidance, always refer to official resources such as:

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): canada.ca/study
• EduCanadeducanada.ca

If you’re ready to start your application or need help understanding your options, consider speaking with a licensed immigration consultant or legal professional.

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