A Comprehensive Guide on Obtaining a Study Permit to Canada
Canada, globally recognized as a top-class education destination, attracts students worldwide. This guide aims to provide you with a deep understanding of how to obtain a study permit to Canada.
What is a Study permit?
A Canada Study Permit is a legal document that allows international students to pursue their education in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) within the country. Essentially, it’s a form of Temporary Resident Permit that grants the permit holder the right to study in Canada for a specific duration.
Who Can Apply for a Study Permit to Canada?
Any international student planning to study at a DLI in Canada can apply for a Canadian Study Permit. Minors can also apply, but additional requirements apply.
Requirements for Minors
Minors applying for a study permit must satisfy the same eligibility criteria as adults. They must:
- Have a parent or legal guardian’s written consent for studying in Canada.
- Have a custodian in Canada responsible for their well-being during their stay.
- Provide proof of funds for their living expenses and return transportation.
- Provide a letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada.
The custodian must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a foreign national authorized to work or study in Canada. They must be at least 18 years old and have no criminal record.
Application Process for a Study Permit to Canada
Here’s a general step-by-step guide on how to apply for a study permit to Canada:
- Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Find a DLI in Canada and secure a letter of acceptance.
- Identify Application Requirements: These requirements vary based on your country of residence and the specific DLI you’ll be attending.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Provide your personal information, study program details, and financial situation.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee can be paid online.
- Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents: These include your letter of acceptance, proof of funds, and medical examination results.
- Attend an Interview if Required: Some applicants may need to attend an interview at a Canadian Immigration office in their country.
- Wait for a Decision on Your Application: You can check the status of your application online.
- Receive a Letter of Introduction: If approved, you’ll receive this letter confirming that you have been approved for a Canadian study permit.
Requirements for Application
- Letter of Acceptance: From a DLI in Canada that is authorized to accept international students.
- Proof of Funds: Proof that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- Passport: A valid passport or travel document for you and any accompanying family members.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-style photographs meeting the Government of Canada’s requirements.
- Study Plan: A statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in Canada, your career goals, and how your chosen program will help achieve those goals.
- English Language Proficiency: Evidence of your English language proficiency, like a TOEFL or IELTS score if your program is in English.
- Medical Examination: Depending on your residence country and your stay duration in Canada, you may need a medical examination.
- Police Clearance Certificate: You may need a police clearance certificate from your origin country and any country where you’ve lived for more than six months in the past five years.
Eligibility Criteria for a Study Permit to Canada
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must:
- Have a letter of acceptance from a DLI.
- Have enough money to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- Undergo a medical examination and obtain a certificate from an approved physician.
- Provide a police clearance certificate.
- Demonstrate that you intend to leave Canada once your study program is completed.
- Have a clean criminal record and not pose a risk to Canada’s security.
How Long Can You Study in Canada?
Your study permit’s validity is tied to the duration of your course, plus one year if you’re taking prerequisite courses. If you don’t finish your courses before the date on your permit, you must apply to extend your stay. If you finish your studies early, your permit will become invalid 90 days after you complete your studies.
Transitioning from a Study Permit to Permanent Residency
Many international students in Canada aspire to obtain work and remain in Canada permanently after completing their studies. In certain Express Entry categories, students may be eligible for permanent residence without any work experience. However, many opt to apply for work and then a work permit to stay temporarily. After gaining academic and work experience in Canada, they may have more options to apply for Canadian permanent residency.
