Understanding the Student Visa in Canada: What You Need to Know

If you are thinking about studying in Canada, it’s important to understand what the Study Permit is and how it works. The Study Permit allows international students to attend educational institutions in the country. This is not a visa, but a permit that accompanies the entry visa, which is required for landing in Canada.

What is the Study Permit?

The Study Permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that authorizes a foreign national to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. This document outlines all the conditions and limitations of the study period, including the possibility of working during studies, if applicable, and the date by which the student must leave the country after completing their course.

After the course ends, if the student wishes to stay in Canada, they will need to apply for a new visa based on their new goals, such as work or further study. However, it is crucial to regularize their immigration status to remain legally in the country.

Who Needs a Study Permit?

Anyone who wishes to study in a program longer than six months in Canada must apply for a Study Permit before travelling. There are exceptions, such as preschool children, who do not need the permit.

If the course duration is less than six months, a Study Permit is not required, and it is possible to enter the country with a Visitor Visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). However, if there is an intention to continue studying in another program, it is advisable to apply for the Study Permit from the beginning.

Requirements for Obtaining the Study Permit

To qualify for a Study Permit, you must:

• Be enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Prove that you have financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and accommodation.
• Demonstrate that you do not intend to remain illegally in Canada and that you will leave the country at the end of your studies.
• Have no criminal record and be in good health.
• Prove ties to your home country.

The necessary documents include the acceptance letter from the educational institution, a valid passport, proof of financial resources, a letter of intent, and in some cases, a medical exam and police clearance certificate.

Advantages of the Study Permit

The Study Permit offers several advantages, such as the possibility of working during studies and the opportunity to bring your family to Canada. Specifically, spouses of master's and doctoral students can obtain an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time in Canada.

Changes in Rules for International Students

Recently, the Canadian government restricted the issuance of open work permits for spouses of international students, limiting them to spouses of students enrolled in master's, doctoral, or professional programs such as medicine and law.

How Can We Help?

e-Visa Immigration offers comprehensive support for students who wish to study in Canada. With over 300 partner institutions and 15,000 study programs.

We also assist with document preparation and guidance for a smooth transition.

Contact us!