Student Visas - Study Permit
If you're considering studying in Canada for over six months, obtaining a Canadian Study Permit is essential. As soon as you receive the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College, you should apply for a student visa without delay.
How to Obtain a Student Visa and Study Permit?
To qualify for a Canadian Student Visa, prospective students must:
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Obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College to initiate your student visa application.
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Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located, unless the student qualifies for an exemption.
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Provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country.
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Acquire a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if intending to study in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec.
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Maintain a clear criminal record, as applicants with a history of criminal activity or those deemed a security risk may be. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request a police clearance certificate.
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Be in good health. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request an applicant to complete a medical examination;
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Demonstrate to the immigration officer that he/she will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay granted by the student visa.
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The applicant may also be required to submit any additional documents requested by specific visa offices.
Note:
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Student visa processing times can vary, and you may experience delays, particularly during busy times such as the summer months. Check processing times at IRCC.
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You will enter Canada on a Student Visa, and upon arrival at the port of entry, you will be issued a Study Permit.
International Students: Gain Work Experience while Studying
One of the major advantages of studying in Canada is that international students with a valid Canadian Study Permit may be eligible to work (up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays or spring break) for an employer outside the campus of the educational institution where he/she is registered.
Eligibility criteria to work off-campus
In order to be eligible to work off-campus during his/her studies, an international student must:
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hold a valid study permit;
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be studying full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI);
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have started studying and remain in satisfactory academic standing as determined by their institution;
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be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that is at least six months in duration and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate; and
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have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
International Students: Gain Work Experience after Graduation
After completing your studies in Canada, you have the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience by applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit may enable you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on your program.
International Students: Studying and Working are major advantages when it comes to obtaining Canadian Permanent Residence
The work experience you accumulate during your PGWP can greatly enhance your chances of applying for Canadian Permanent Residence, especially through the Canadian Experience Class and certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
Do you need assistance in getting student, work or immigration visas?
Our Licensed Immigration Consultants provide advice and guidance on obtaining student, work or immigration visas to ensure you have everything you need to meet legal requirements.
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of our experienced Licensed Immigration Consultants.
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