Study Permit

The Study Permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada.

It’s important to understand that a Study Permit is not the same as a visa. While both are issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), they serve different purposes.

Study Permit: A Study Permit is a document that allows foreign nationals to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) in Canada. It’s essentially a permission to engage in academic, professional, or vocational training programs in the country. The Study Permit also dictates the duration you’re allowed to stay in Canada to complete your studies.

Visa: On the other hand, a visa, specifically a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is an official document placed in your passport demonstrating that you have met the requirements to enter Canada as a temporary resident (either as a visitor, a student, or a worker). It doesn’t permit you to work or study, it simply allows you to travel to and enter Canada.

In many cases, international students will need both a Study Permit and a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) depending on their nationality, to study in Canada. The Study Permit allows you to stay in Canada for the duration of your studies, while the visa or eTA allows you to enter Canada.

Eligibility Requirements

• Proof of Acceptance: You need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

• Proof of Identity: A valid passport or travel document for you and each family member accompanying you to Canada. The passport should be valid for the entire duration of your study period.

• Proof of Financial Support: You must prove that you can support yourself and your family members accompanying you during your stay in Canada.

• Good Health: You may need to undergo a medical exam if required.

• No Criminal Record: You may need to provide a police certificate to prove that you are law-abiding and have no criminal record.

• Intent to Leave Canada after Studies: You must convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies.

Application Process

• Prepare Your Documents: This includes your acceptance letter, passport, and financial support documents, among others. You may also need to provide a letter of explanation and other documents depending on your circumstances.

• Complete the Application: The application form should be filled out accurately. At Pathway2Canada, we can guide you through this process and ensure everything is filled out correctly.

• Pay the Fees: There are fees for applying for a Study Permit, including a processing fee and, if applicable, a biometrics fee.

• Provide Biometrics: You may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) if required.

• Wait for Processing: The processing time varies depending on the country of residence.

• If Approved, Prepare to Arrive: If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction, while the actual study permit will be issued to you when you arrive in Canada and present your letter to the immigration officer.

Extra Information

As an international student in Canada, there are opportunities to work while you study. However, the work permissions depend on the terms of your Study Permit and whether you meet certain eligibility criteria.

Working On-Campus or Off-Campus: As an international student, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks (like winter and summer holidays, and spring break). This applies to both on-campus and off-campus jobs, without the need for a separate work permit, provided:

• • • You hold a valid Study Permit

    • You are a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).

    • You are enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program, or a secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only).
    • Your program of study is at least six months or longer, and it leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

Work as part of a study program (Co-op or Internship): If your study program includes a mandatory work placement or internship, you will need to apply for a co-op or intern work permit in addition to your Study Permit.

Work after Graduation: After your studies, you might be eligible to work temporarily or even live permanently in Canada, depending on your situation, through various work permit and immigration options, including the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Dependants of International Students: If you have dependants (spouse or common-law partner) accompanying you to Canada, they may be eligible for an open work permit that allows them to work full-time while you study. They can apply for this permit at the same time when you apply for your study permit.

Schooling for Dependent Children: If you have dependent children, they are eligible for free education at the elementary and secondary levels while you’re studying in Canada. This applies as long as one parent (either mother or father) holds a valid Study Permit. Remember, the free schooling is dependent on the school policies in the specific province or territory.

Please note that these rules are subject to change, and it is always recommended to check the latest guidelines from the Government of Canada’s official website or consult with an immigration expert, like us at Pathway2Canada. We can help you navigate these opportunities and ensure that you meet all necessary requirements to make the most out of your study experience in Canada.

Our team of experts understand the ins and outs of Canadian immigration laws and procedures, and we’re ready to assist you in making your dream to study in Canada a reality.