Lori Meadows
International students who wish to study in Canada must apply for a study permit, also known as a student visa. The student visa is valid for the duration of the study program, plus an additional 90 days to allow students to extend their stay or arrange to leave Canada. The validity of a student visa in Canada depends on the courses or program chosen. If a student is taking prerequisite courses, the visa will be valid for the duration of those courses plus one extra year. Students must always be enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI) and meet the conditions of their study permit. They may also be able to work part-time during their studies, depending on the length of their program and whether the work is on or off-campus.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Validity | Length of study program + 90 days |
| Application process | Online |
| Required documents | Acceptance letter, proof of identity, proof of funds, letter of explanation, etc. |
| Work eligibility | Yes, up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks |
| Work permit | Required if working during studies |
| Travel visa | Required if staying in Canada for less than 6 months |
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What You'll Learn
Student visa validity duration
International students studying in Canada are required to have a student visa or study permit. This must be obtained before arriving in Canada and is typically processed within 8–13 weeks, although it can take up to 3 months or longer. It is recommended to apply 4–6 months in advance to avoid delays. The visa is valid for the duration of the study program, plus an additional 90 days. This grace period allows students to either extend their stay, apply for a different type of permit (such as a work permit), or arrange to leave the country.
The length of the study permit may vary depending on the chosen courses or program. If a student is required to take prerequisite courses before starting the main program, the study permit will be valid for the duration of those courses plus one extra year. Once accepted into the main program, students must apply to extend their stay as a student. Similarly, if a student's study permit will expire before they finish their courses, they must apply for an extension.
To obtain a student visa for Canada, individuals must provide various documents, including proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), proof of identity, proof of funds, and a letter of explanation detailing their reasons for studying in Canada. Additionally, certain provinces or territories may require specific documentation, such as a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for those planning to study in Quebec.
It is important to note that the conditions of the study permit must be met throughout the student's stay in Canada. This includes maintaining enrolment at a DLI and making progress toward completing the study program. Failure to comply with the requirements may result in the need to stop studying and leave the country.
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Extending your stay
A Canadian study permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, plus an extra 90 days. The extra 90 days allow students to either extend their stay or prepare to leave the country. If you finish your studies early, your study permit will stop being valid 90 days after you complete your studies, regardless of the date printed on the study permit.
If you want to extend your stay in Canada, you will need to apply for a study permit extension. This can be done online, although you may be eligible for an exemption that allows you to apply on paper. You must apply at least 30 days before your permit expires. If you apply before your permit expires, you can continue to study under the same conditions as your current study permit until a decision is made, as long as you stay in Canada.
If you are applying for a study permit extension, new financial requirements apply. You will need to demonstrate that you have enough money to continue supporting yourself while you study in Canada. You will also need to enroll at a school with DLI status.
If you are changing schools at the post-secondary level, you will need to get a new study permit by applying to extend your current one. Before you change your school, you must meet all the conditions of your study permit. This means you must be enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI). If you are in a co-op program and are changing to a co-op program at a different school, you must apply for a new co-op work permit.
If you are unable to extend your study permit, the Canadian government offers the option of a post-graduate work permit (PGWP). This allows international students to stay in Canada and work for up to three years after graduation. After the first year of working full-time, the person is eligible to apply for permanent residency.
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Work permits
In Canada, a student visa or study permit is an official document provided by the Canadian government that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs). The visa is typically valid for the duration of the student's study program, plus an additional 90 days. This grace period allows students to either extend their stay or prepare to leave the country.
Now, let's focus on work permits for international students in Canada:
- On-Campus Work Permit: International students in Canada on a valid study permit are generally allowed to work on-campus without a separate work permit. On-campus employment includes working for the institution, a student organization, or a private contractor providing services to the institution on campus. There are no restrictions on the number of hours worked per week for on-campus jobs. However, students must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements set by the Government of Canada and adhere to provincial labour standards.
- Off-Campus Work Permit: International students can also work off-campus while studying in Canada, but they need to meet specific requirements. Firstly, they must be enrolled full-time as students. Secondly, they must ensure their study permit includes a condition authorizing them to work in Canada. When working off-campus, international students cannot exceed 20 hours of work per week during their classes. This restriction is typically lifted during scheduled breaks.
- Co-op or Internship Work Permit: To apply for a work permit for a co-op or internship position, international students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled in a designated learning institution. The employment must be certified as part of the academic program by an academic official from the institution. Additionally, the co-op or internship employment cannot form more than 50% of the total program of study.
- Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP): The Canadian government offers a PGWP, allowing international students to remain in Canada and work for up to three years after graduation. To apply for a PGWP, students must meet specific conditions while under the study permit. After the first year of working full-time, individuals become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
It is important to note that the rules and requirements for work permits may change, and international students should always refer to official government sources for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, some volunteer activities may be considered work by the IRCC, and students should seek guidance from an International Student Advisor (ISA) to understand their options and eligibility.
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Study permit conditions
International students in Canada must adhere to several conditions outlined in their study permit. This permit is typically valid for the duration of their study program, plus an additional 90 days. The extra 90 days serve as a buffer period to either extend the study permit or make arrangements to leave Canada. However, if a student completes their studies before the permit expires, the validity ends 90 days after completion, regardless of the printed date on the permit.
There are variations in the length of the study permit depending on the chosen courses or program. For instance, if prerequisite courses are required before starting the main program, the student visa will cover the duration of those courses plus one extra year. In such cases, upon acceptance into the main program, students must apply to extend their stay as a student. Similarly, if a student's study permit will expire before they finish their courses, they must apply for an extension. Otherwise, they will need to discontinue their studies and leave Canada.
To maintain their status as a student in Canada, individuals must follow specific conditions outlined in their study permit. These conditions include:
- Enrolling at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses for themselves and any accompanying family members, and return transportation costs.
- Complying with the law and having no criminal record, as well as providing a police certificate if necessary.
- Maintaining good health and undergoing a medical exam if required.
- Proving to an officer that they will depart Canada when their study permit expires.
- Making progress toward completing their academic program.
- Respecting any additional conditions mentioned on their study permit.
- Discontinuing studies if they no longer meet the requirements.
It is important to note that starting November 8, 2024, students will no longer be able to change schools using the same study permit. If individuals wish to change their post-secondary school, they must obtain a new study permit by applying to extend their current one. Additionally, if a student plans to switch from a co-op program to a co-op program at a different school, they must apply for a new co-op work permit.
International students in Canada have the option to apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) to remain in the country and gain work experience after graduation. The PGWP allows students to work for up to three years post-graduation. After the first year of full-time work, they become eligible to apply for permanent residency. To be considered for a PGWP, students must meet specific conditions while under their study permit.
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Application process
In Canada, a study permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, plus an additional 90 days. This means that international students can stay in the country for 90 days after completing their studies to prepare for their departure from Canada.
Now, here is a detailed overview of the application process for a Canadian study permit:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting the application process, it is important to determine whether you are eligible for a study permit. This involves checking the specific requirements and criteria set by the Canadian government for international students.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
To apply for a study permit, you need to create an online account on the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities. This account will serve as your platform to manage your application and track its progress.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
The application process requires various documents, including proof of identity, academic qualifications, and financial resources. Make sure to refer to the instruction guide on the website to understand the specific documents needed for your application.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
After creating your account and gathering the necessary documents, carefully fill out the application form. Provide accurate and complete information, including your personal details, educational background, and reasons for choosing to study in Canada.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Biometrics
Submit your completed application form online, along with the required fees. You may also need to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints and a photo, within 30 days of receiving the request. The processing of your application will begin once your biometrics are received.
Step 6: Wait for the Decision
The Canadian immigration authorities will review your application and notify you of their decision. If your application is approved, you will receive your study permit and other relevant documents. If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal.
Step 7: Travel to Canada
Once you have received your study permit, you can start planning your travel to Canada. Ensure that you carry all the necessary travel documents, including your passport, study permit, and any other required visas or authorizations.
It is important to note that the application process may vary slightly depending on your country of origin and specific circumstances. Therefore, it is always recommended to refer to the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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Frequently asked questions
A Canadian student visa or study permit is valid for the duration of the study program plus an extra 90 days. This allows students to either extend their stay or arrange to leave the country.
In this case, your student visa will be valid for the duration of those courses plus one extra year.
You will need the following documents to apply for a Canadian student visa:
- A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Proof of identity (a valid passport or travel document, plus two recent passport-sized photos)
- Proof of funds (minimum of $10,000 CAD per year of study)
- A letter of explanation detailing your reasons for studying in Canada and your understanding of your responsibilities as an international student
- A Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you are planning on studying in Québec
- A Custodian Declaration if you are under 17 years old
