International Students In Canada: Am I Eligible?

Canada is a popular destination for international students, offering a range of academic opportunities. All primary and secondary schools in Canada can enrol international students, and there are many post-secondary institutions, including colleges and universities, that are designated to enrol international students. Each province and territory in Canada approves schools that can enrol international students, and these are known as designated learning institutions (DLI). International students must apply to a DLI and obtain a study permit to study in Canada. There are specific rules and requirements for minor children and those seeking part-time work. International students in Canada may also need to file a Canadian income tax return and are subject to various tax regulations depending on their residency status.

Application process

To study in Canada as an international student, you must apply for a study permit. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. However, you don't need a study permit if:

• You're coming to Canada for a program that lasts six months or less.
• You're a family or staff member of a foreign representative to Canada that has been accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC).
• You're a member of a foreign armed force from another country.
• You have Registered Indian status in Canada, even if you're a citizen of another country.

If you're outside of Canada, you may still be eligible to apply for a study permit when you arrive at a port of entry. However, if you're already in Canada, you must apply online. If you're in Canada and leave as a student on maintained status, you'll lose your ability to study when you return, meaning you can't study until your application is approved.

Each province and territory in Canada designates schools that can enrol international students, known as designated learning institutions (DLIs). If you need a study permit, your acceptance letter must be from a DLI. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs, but at the post-secondary level, each province and territory have their own list of designated schools, including universities, colleges, CEGEPs, vocational schools, and private career colleges and language schools.

Once you choose a school, college, or university, you must apply to that specific institution. Each school has its own set of rules on how to apply, including the level of English or French proficiency you need to be accepted. Some colleges may also ask you to take a college language assessment test or enroll in an English as a Second Language program before being accepted as a full-time student.

When you apply for a study permit, you must submit a complete application to avoid processing delays. If you're between 14 and 79 years old, you'll need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) and pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application. You'll have 30 days to do this from the date on the letter requesting your biometrics. After your biometrics are submitted, your application will be processed, and you'll be notified if you're approved to come to Canada.

Language requirements

To study in Canada as an international student, you must meet certain language requirements. These requirements vary depending on the province or territory and the chosen educational institution. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the language requirements for international students in Canada:

Language Proficiency Tests:

Many universities and colleges in Canada require international students to demonstrate proficiency in English or French, depending on the language of instruction. Proficiency tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test are commonly accepted for English proficiency, while the DELF or DALF may be required for French proficiency. These tests assess your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in the chosen language. It is important to check with your desired educational institution to determine which language tests are accepted and the required scores for admission.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs:

Some colleges in Canada offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help international students improve their English language skills before starting their full-time academic program. Enrolling in an ESL program can be a great way to enhance your English proficiency and meet the language requirements for your desired academic program. Contact the International Office at your chosen college to inquire about their ESL offerings and requirements.

Provincial and Territorial Requirements:

In addition to institutional requirements, some provinces and territories in Canada may have specific language requirements for international students. For example, Quebec offers French-language education and has unique programs for international students wishing to study in French. The Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot program allows international students from specific countries to study in French in Canada. Ensure you review the language requirements for your intended province or territory.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

The language requirements for international students in Canada also extend beyond academic admissions. If you plan to work in Canada after graduation, you may need to meet the language proficiency standards for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP rules have been revised to align with Canada's labour market demands, and improved language skills can enhance your integration into the Canadian job market.

Student Direct Stream (SDS):

When applying for a study permit through the Student Direct Stream (SDS), you may be required to provide proof of language proficiency as part of the immigration process. This may include submitting language test results or demonstrating sufficient language skills through other means. The specific requirements can vary, so it is essential to review the instructions carefully and ensure your application meets all the necessary standards.

In conclusion, as an international student planning to study in Canada, it is crucial to prioritize language proficiency. Start working on your language skills as early as possible, and ensure you meet the specific language requirements set by your chosen educational institution, province, or territory. This will not only facilitate your academic pursuits but also enhance your integration into Canadian society and improve your career prospects in the Canadian job market.

Working while studying

International students in Canada are usually allowed to work while studying, which can be a great way to support yourself and gain valuable work experience. However, there are some requirements and restrictions that you should be aware of.

Firstly, you need to check your study permit, which will state whether you are permitted to work and the conditions of employment. Most study permits allow international students to work both on and off-campus, but there may be exceptions. For instance, if your study permit is for a program of less than six months or it specifies that you have employment restrictions, you may not be authorized to work. If you believe you should be authorized to work but this is not stated on your permit, you should submit a request to have it updated before starting any employment.

If you are eligible to work, you will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you do not already have one. You will also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources when you apply for your study permit, as anticipated future earnings will not be accepted as proof of financial capacity.

There are different requirements for working on-campus and off-campus. On-campus refers to employment within the buildings or grounds of your school's campus, including jobs with the school itself, faculty members, student organizations, or private businesses that operate on campus. There are no restrictions on the number of hours you can work on-campus. However, if you are working off-campus, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being enrolled as a full-time student. In the past, students were restricted to working a maximum of 20 hours per week off-campus during regular school terms, but this limit has since been increased to 24 hours per week. During scheduled breaks, such as holidays, there is no limit on the number of hours students can work on or off-campus.

If you are interested in a co-op or internship position, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit. To be eligible, you must have a valid study permit, be enrolled in a program that requires work placements, and have a letter from your designated learning institution confirming that work placements are necessary for your degree. Your co-op or internship employment can make up no more than 50% of your total program of study.

Overall, working while studying in Canada can be a rewarding experience that provides you with valuable skills and connections. However, it is important to carefully consider the requirements and restrictions to ensure that you maintain your student status and do not jeopardize any future immigration applications.

Taxes for international students

If you are an international student studying in Canada, you may need to file a Canadian income tax return. Your residency status will determine your income tax return filing requirements.

Determining Your Residency Status

Your residency status is based on the residential ties you have with Canada. If you have established significant residential ties with Canada, you are considered a resident for income tax purposes. You are considered a non-resident if you do not establish significant residential ties and stay in Canada for less than 183 days during the year.

Filing Requirements

If you are a resident of Canada, you must complete your tax return with the General Income Tax and Benefit package of the province in which you resided on December 31 of the tax year. You will be taxed on income from all sources, but you can claim any taxes paid to a foreign government as a foreign tax credit.

If you are a non-resident or deemed non-resident, you will complete an income tax package specifically for non-residents. Non-residents are not eligible for benefits and credits and are only required to file a tax return to pay taxes or receive a refund.

Obtaining a Social Insurance Number

The first step to filing a tax return is to obtain a Social Insurance Number from Service Canada, or an individual Tax Number from the Canada Revenue Agency.

Workshops and Resources

The University of Waterloo offers on-campus workshops and resources to help international students learn the basics of filing an income tax return. They also hold an annual Filing Your Taxes in Canada information session, which is open to undergraduate and graduate international students.

Health and insurance

As an international student in Canada, you will need to obtain health insurance for the duration of your stay. The Canadian healthcare system is administered at the provincial level, and each province operates differently. Some provinces, such as Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba, offer health insurance to international students that can be purchased before arrival. Other provinces, like Ontario, Quebec, and Prince Edward Island, do not offer health insurance to international students, so private insurance is necessary.

If you are enrolled in a post-secondary institution, your school may offer health insurance packages that are either mandatory or optional. These packages typically cover visits to a doctor, hospital stays, diagnostic testing, ambulance services, and emergency medical care. Some schools may even require students to purchase these packages, while others may allow students to opt-out if they have private insurance from another source.

If you are planning to study in British Columbia for at least six months, you are eligible for BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, there is a waiting period of up to three months before you can qualify for MSP. During this waiting period, international students can rely on basic health insurance provided by iMED. Similarly, international students in Alberta studying for at least six months are usually eligible for provincial health insurance through the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). It is important to note that both MSP and AHCIP only cover basic health expenses and do not include dental care or prescription drugs.

In cases where provincial health insurance is not available or accessible, international students must purchase private insurance. This can often be done through your school in Canada, or directly from an insurance company. The cost of private health insurance can vary depending on factors such as age, pre-existing medical conditions, and the desired level of coverage. The average cost for international students typically ranges from C$600 to C$900 per year.

Regardless of your insurance coverage, all areas of Canada will provide free emergency health services to save a life. However, these services are restricted, and you may be expected to pay for costs upfront. Without insurance, routine medical services can be expensive, with doctor's appointments starting at C$120 and emergency room visits costing upwards of C$1,000. Therefore, it is essential to have health insurance as an international student in Canada to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Frequently asked questions