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Canada Study Permit 101: Everything You Must Know
By : Lifeincan   |   Jul 30, 2024

Canada Study Permit 101: Everything You Must Know

Canada has become one of the most popular countries for students from all over the world to study due to the quality of education and cultural diversity. Generally, for one to study in Canada, he or she requires a study permit. This blog post will discuss the following aspects of the Canada study permits; application, requirements, conditions, and extension.

What Is A Study Permit?

A study permit is an authorization given to foreign students by the Canadian government to study in Canada in the DLIs. This is not a visa; you may also require a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada.

Who Needs A Study Permit?

Here are details of who needs a study permit and who does not:

Who Needs a Study Permit?

Who Does Not Need a Study Permit?

Most foreign nationals studying in Canada for more than six months

Short-term courses or programs (six months or less)

Students enrolling in primary or secondary schools

Foreign representatives and their family members

Those attending designated learning institutions (DLIs)

Members of foreign armed forces

Participants in longer academic, professional, or vocational training

Registered Indians in Canada (recognized under the Indian Act)

Applying For A Study Permit

To apply for a study permit, you need to follow several steps. Here's a detailed guide:

1. Obtain An Acceptance Letter

First, you must either be issued a letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada or be a Canadian citizen/Permanent Resident. This letter is important as it proves that you are enrolled in a recognized institution.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Document

Description

Valid passport

You should have a valid passport in order to stay in the country. 

Proof of acceptance

The acceptance letter from your DLI.

Proof of financial support

Ensure you have enough funds

Passport-sized photographs

Typically, two recent passport-sized photos are required.

Letter of explanation

Helps the visa officer understand your intentions and goals for studying in Canada.

Custodian declaration (if minor)

For minors studying in Canada, a custodian declaration is needed.

Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

If you plan to study in Quebec, you need a CAQ from the Government of Quebec.

3. Complete The Application

Complete the application form (IMM 1294) either online or offline. Check for accuracy of all information to be included in the report. The current application fee is CAD 150. There may be extra charges for biometrics and other services.

4. Submit Biometrics

Depending on your nationality, you will be required to give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric data). The collection of biometrics is usually CAD 85.

5. Wait For Processing

Processing times differ according to the country in question. You can check the current processing times on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Delays may take from several weeks to several months to complete their work, therefore, be patient.

6. Receive Decision

If granted you will be issued with the Port Of Entry (POE) letter of introduction. You will also be granted a visitor visa if the situation is relevant, or an eTA for Canada. It is recommended that these documents be produced at the port of entry in Canada to the immigration officer.

Financial Requirements

To demonstrate that you are capable of meeting your and/or your family’s living expenses while studying in Canada, you are required to provide evidence of funds.

Requirement

Amount (per year)

Student's living expenses

CAD 10,000

Living expenses for the first family member

CAD 4,000

Living expenses for each additional family member

CAD 3,000

Tuition fees

Varies by institution and program

Conditions Of A Study Permit

While holding a study permit, you must adhere to certain conditions:

Condition

Details

Enroll at a DLI

You should be enrolled in a DLI

Make progress toward completing your program

You are expected to make reasonable progress in your studies.

Obey any terms given on your study permit

Conditions may include restrictions on work or travel.

Not allowed to study if you don’t meet the criteria

If you fail to meet the conditions of your study permit, you won’t be able to study and leave Canada.

Working While Studying

With a study permit, international students may work under specific conditions:

Work Type

Details

On-campus work

Students can work on campus such as at libraries, student clubs, and more without a work permit if they are enrolled at a post-secondary institution. 

Off-campus work

Students are permitted to work off-campus for a maximum of 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks like winter and summer holidays.

Co-op or internships

If your study program includes a mandatory work component, you can apply for a co-op or intern work permit.

Extending Your Study Permit

If you need more time to complete your study program, you must apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires.

Below are the steps to extend your study permit:

Gather Documents

You should have the following documents:

  • Current study permit

  • Proof of acceptance

  • Proof of financial support

  • Passport

Submit Application

Complete on the Internet or on paper using the form IMM 5709. Ensure all information is precise and detailed. The extension fee is CAD 150.

Wait For Processing

While waiting for the decision, one is allowed to further his or her studies under the same circumstances. The time taken to process applications for extensions also differs, and one should check the IRCC website for the current processing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I take my family to Canada?

Yes, you are allowed to be accompanied by your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. It may be they can get a work permit or study permit. Your spouse or partner can apply for an open work permit and this enables him or her to work for any employer in Canada.

  1. Can a person holding a study permit in Canada travel to other countries?

Yes, but to be allowed back into Canada, you must have a visa or ETA that is still valid. Check that your travel documents are valid and you meet the requirements in case of re-entry into your country.

  1. What if I have overstayed my study permit?

You have to cease your studies and depart Canada or you have to apply to regain your student status. To restore your status, you have to apply within 90 days of your permit’s expiry date or within the validity period of the permit and you will be required to pay for the restoration fee.

Conclusion

This blog aims to establish the knowledge of international students on the acquisition and renewal of the study permit for studies in Canada. Following the guidelines provided in this guide, students will be able to achieve a successful study experience in Canada. It is always wise to make sure you are informed of the updated information on study permits from the official authorities.