1. Check Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for a student visa:
- Letter of Acceptance:You need a letter of acceptance from a recognized Canadian educational institution.
- Proof of Financial Support:You must show that you can financially support yourself and any accompanying family members while in Canada. This includes tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- Intention to Leave:You must convince the authorities that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies.
- No Criminal Record: You may need to provide a police certificate as proof of good character.
- Health: A medical exam may be required depending on where you’re coming from.
2. Apply to a Canadian School
Apply to the school of your choice in Canada, ensuring that it’s a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Once accepted, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance, which is a crucial document for your study permit application.
3. Gather Required Documents
You will need several documents to submit with your visa application:
- Proof of Acceptance: Letter from the Canadian school.
- Proof of Identity: Passport-sized photos and a valid passport.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, affidavits of support, scholarship letters, etc.
- Statement of Purpose: A letter explaining your intent to study in Canada, why you chose the course, and how it will benefit your future.
- Academic Documents: Transcripts, diplomas, and certificates from your previous studies.
- Medical Examination: If required, schedule and complete the medical exam.
- Police Certificate: If necessary, provide a police clearance to prove you have no criminal record.
4. Submit Your Application
You can apply for a Canadian study permit online or through a visa application center (VAC). Online applications are processed faster, and you can track the status of your application more easily.
- Online Application: Create an account on the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Complete the application form and upload your documents.
- Paper Application: you prefer to submit a paper application, you can download the forms from the IRCC website, complete them, and send them to the nearest VAC.
5. Pay Application Fees
Pay the required processing fees for your study permit application. The current fee is generally around CAD $150, but it can vary. Be sure to check the IRCC website for up-to-date information on fees.
6. Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
You may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at a designated VAC or Application Support Center (ASC) as part of the application process.
7. Wait for Processing
Once your application is submitted, you’ll have to wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on your country of residence, the completeness of your application, and the time of year. You can check the processing times on the IRCC website.
8. Interview (If Required)
In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview. This is usually to verify your application details or assess your genuine intention to study in Canada.
9. Decision on Your Application
Once your application has been processed, you’ll receive a decision on whether your study permit is approved or denied. If your application is approved:
You’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and a study permit (if you're already in Canada) or a letter of introduction for approval upon arrival in Canada.
10. Travel to Canada
If your study permit is approved, you will be issued a study permit once you arrive at the Canadian port of entry.
Carry all your documents, including the POE letter, your passport, and the other documents you submitted during your application.
11. Arriving in Canada
Upon arrival in Canada, a border officer will verify your documents and issue your study permit. This permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, plus an additional 90 days, giving you time to prepare for departure.
Important Notes:
- Work While Studying:If your study permit is approved, you may be eligible to work on or off-campus while studying. This depends on the specific conditions of your permit.
- Study Permit Extension: If you need to extend your stay in Canada, apply for a permit extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit: After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of your study program.