Study Permit

A study permit is an immigration document that allows you to live in Canada temporarily while you study at a post-secondary institution.

If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and you want to study in Canada in a program of 6 months or more, then you must have a valid study permit.

Documents you need to get a study permit

You will need the following documents to apply for a study permit:

Proof of acceptance: Acceptance letter or offer of admission from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) with details about the academic program, including the name of the program, duration, expected start and graduation dates. It helps if this also includes the tuition cost for the first year of the program. If the letter of acceptance is missing information that is required by the visa office, you should contact the registrar’s office of your college, department or school.

Proof of identity: Valid passport or travel document and two recent passport-size photos.

Proof of financial support: Evidence of sufficient funds that will cover at least one year of your tuition and living expenses. This usually means the cost of tuition plus at least CDN$10,000 per year for single students

Other documentation as required: Any other documentation required by the visa office/consulate where you will be submitting your application (you should consult the website of the office you are applying to).

If your application is approved, you will receive a Study Permit approval letter, and where necessary a Temporary Resident Visa (Entry Visa) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You need to show the approval letter upon entry to Canada to receive your actual Study Permit.