Overview
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. You generally need a study permit if your program of study lasts longer than six months. Upon approval, you receive a port of entry letter of introduction, which you present to border officials to receive your permit.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, you must have an acceptance letter from a DLI, prove you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation, and demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. You must also be law-abiding, have no criminal record, and be in good health. In most cases, you must also provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) from the province or territory where you intend to study.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Choose a DLI
Ensure your chosen school is on the list of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that can host international students.
- 2
Step 2: Secure Acceptance
Apply to the institution and receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
- 3
Step 3: Obtain Attestation
Request and receive a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) from the province or territory where your school is located.
- 4
Step 4: Prepare Documents
Gather all required financial, identity, and supporting documents as specified by the IRCC document checklist.
- 5
Step 5: Submit Online
Create an IRCC account, complete the online application, pay the processing and biometrics fees, and submit your documents.
Required documents
- Proof of acceptance (Letter of Acceptance from a DLI)
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL)
- Proof of identity (valid passport or travel document)
- Proof of financial support
- Letter of explanation (recommended)
- Medical exam results (if required)
- Police certificate (if required)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
Graduates from eligible programs at designated institutions may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This work experience can then be used to qualify for various permanent residency pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Family options
You may include your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children in your application. Spouses of students in specific graduate or professional programs may be eligible for an open work permit.
Language notes
While there is no universal language test requirement for the study permit itself, your DLI will likely require proof of English or French proficiency for admission.
After arrival
Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, present your letter of introduction and supporting documents to a border services officer, who will issue your study permit.
Common pitfalls
- Failing to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) when required.
- Insufficient proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs.
- Incomplete applications leading to processing delays or refusals.
- Not clearly demonstrating intent to leave Canada after studies.
FAQs about Study Permit
Who is the Study Permit for?+
International students accepted into a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada who intend to study for more than six months.
What are the eligibility requirements for Study Permit?+
To be eligible, you must have an acceptance letter from a DLI, prove you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation, and demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. You must also be law-abiding, have no criminal record, and be in good health. In most cases, you must also provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) from the province or territory where you intend to study.
How much does the Study Permit cost?+
Typical fees listed for Study Permit: CAD $150 for the study permit application; CAD $85 for biometrics (if required).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Study Permit processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically varies by country of residence; recent estimates suggest approximately 7 weeks for many applicants..
How long can I stay on the Study Permit?+
Valid for the duration of the study program plus an additional 90 days; may lead to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and permanent residency pathways.
Can I work on the Study Permit?+
Eligible students may work on or off-campus without a separate work permit if they meet specific IRCC criteria. Spouses of students in certain master's, doctoral, or professional programs may be eligible for an open work permit.
Does Study Permit lead to permanent residence in Canada?+
Graduates from eligible programs at designated institutions may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This work experience can then be used to qualify for various permanent residency pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
What are common mistakes with Study Permit?+
Failing to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) when required. Insufficient proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs. Incomplete applications leading to processing delays or refusals.