Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world, attracting thousands of international students every year. If you plan to study in Canada as an international student, you must apply for a study permit.
Canada continues to remain a popular destination for Indian students, with a consistent influx of applicants. However, securing admission to top Canadian universities requires a solid academic background.
To study there, students must obtain a Study Permit, which validates their permission to study in Canada. Having a Study Permit before entering Canada for academic, vocational, or professional training at any recognized educational institution is mandatory. While this permit is issued upon arrival in Canada, the initial step is to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa, which is processed by the Canadian High Commission and Visa Application Centers facilitated by VFS Global Services. It is also essential for students to be aware of the reasons that may lead to the rejection of their Canada Visa application.
This article will cover everything, from the requirements for a Canada student visa to the essential documents needed to obtain a Study Permit.
Complete Guide to TOEFL Exam for Canada Student Visa
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to study in Canada. It is not a visa and does not allow you to enter Canada. If you are from a visa-required country, you must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in addition to your study permit.
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Talk to an ExpertApplication Process for Canadian Student Visa
Step 1: Choose a Program and a School
The first step in applying for a study permit is to choose a program and a school. Canada has many educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and technical schools. You should research the schools and programs that interest you and ensure they meet your educational goals and requirements.
Step 2: Check the Eligibility Criteria
Before you apply for a study permit, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Canadian government. To be eligible for a study permit, you must:
- have been accepted by a designated learning institution in Canada
- prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
- have a clean criminal record
- be in good health and are willing to undergo a medical examination if required
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
To apply for a study permit, you must gather the required documents. The documents you must provide may vary depending on your country of origin and the program you are applying for. Generally, you will need to provide the following documents:
- a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution in Canada
- proof of financial support
- a valid passport or travel document
- two recent passport-size photos
- a completed application form
- proof of English or French language proficiency
- a statement of purpose outlining your academic goals and how studying in Canada will help you achieve them
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application online or by mail. You should apply for your study permit as soon as possible to allow enough time for processing. The processing time for a study permit may vary depending on your country of origin, so it is essential to check the processing times on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Step 5: Attend a Biometrics Appointment (if required)
If you are from a country requiring biometrics, you must attend a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). Biometrics include your fingerprints and a digital photo. The biometrics confirm your identity and create a biometric residence permit (BRP).
Step 6: Wait for Your Study Permit
Once your application has been processed, you will receive a letter of introduction from the IRCC. This letter will confirm that your study permit has been approved and will include a Port of Entry (POE) letter of introduction. When you arrive in Canada, you must present this letter to the border services officer.
Step 7: Arrive in Canada and Start Your Studies
Once you arrive in Canada, you must show the border services officer your letter of introduction, passport or travel document, and any other documents the officer requests. The officer will verify your identity and confirm that you meet the requirements to enter Canada. If everything is in order, the officer will issue your study permit.
After receiving your study permit, you can begin your studies in Canada. You must maintain full-time student status and make satisfactory academic progress to keep your study permit valid. You may also be eligible to work part-time on and off campus while studying in Canada.
Student Visa process for Canada
Study Permit Fees
The fees for a study permit may vary depending on your country of origin and the length of your program. As of September 2021, a study permit costs CAD $150. In addition to the study permit fee, you may also need to pay the biometrics fee, which is $85.
Extensions and Renewals
If you need to extend or renew your study permit, apply at least 30 days before your current license expires. To restore your study permit, you must provide updated information and documents, including proof of enrollment in a designated learning institution, proof of financial support, and a new letter of acceptance if you have changed schools.
Suppose you have completed your program of study in Canada and want to stay in Canada temporarily to work or travel. In that case, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after you graduate from a designated learning institution in Canada.
