Student Visa (Study Permit)
How to Apply for a Canada Student Visa (Study Permit)
To obtain a Canada Student Visa (Study Permit), students must first secure enrolment and acceptance into a Canadian educational institution. Depending on their country of citizenship or residence, students may also require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and/or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
Who Can Apply for a Canada Student Visa?
Foreign students who have been accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada are eligible to apply for a Canada Student Visa. This visa allows them to travel to Canada and pursue the specific program they were admitted to. Before submitting your visa application, you must receive an official acceptance letter from the DLI you plan to attend.
Additionally, applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for a Canada Student Visa:
- Acceptance by a DLI
You must provide proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada. - Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover:- Tuition fees
- Living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members
- Return transportation costs for yourself and your family members
- Good Character and Security Compliance
You must be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and pose no security risk to Canada. A police certificate may be required. - Health Requirements
You must be in good health and may need to undergo a medical examination if requested. - Intent to Leave Canada
You must convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada upon the expiration of your authorized stay.
Meeting these requirements is essential to successfully obtaining a Canada Student Visa and beginning your academic journey in Canada.
When You Do Not Need a Study Permit to Study in Canada
There are specific circumstances where you are not required to obtain a study permit to attend school in Canada:
- Enrolling in a Short-Term Course or Program
- Family Member of a Foreign Representative to Canada
- Family Member of Foreign Armed Forces Personnel
- Foreign Nationals with Registered Indian Status
Work While You Study in Canada
As a full-time student enrolled in a qualifying program, you can work either on-campus or off-campus without needing a separate work permit. However, specific conditions apply depending on the type of program and the location of the job.
Bringing Your Family to Canada
You can bring your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children to Canada while you pursue your studies. Your spouse or partner will be eligible for an Open Work Permit, valid for the same duration as your study permit. This work permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada without restrictions.
Spouse/Common-Law Partner Open Work Permit
Spouses or common-law partners of international students studying in Canada can apply for an Open Work Permit. This permit enables them to work in any job for any employer across Canada. The work permit’s validity period will match the duration of the student’s study permit.
