Canadian Study Permit Guide – Overview, Steps and Renewals

Published on May 16th 2025 by Fairworld Immigration

Applying for a Canadian study permit offers numerous advantages beyond access to world-class education. As a Canadian study permit holder, you may be eligible to work part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks, helping you gain valuable Canadian work experience. Studying in Canada also opens pathways to permanent residency through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). In many cases, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, and your children may study at the primary or secondary level without needing their own study permits. Lastly and most importantly, Canada offers a safe, multicultural environment, a great reason to choose Canada as your higher education destination.

stock image of 3 students standing in casual clothes with backpack and books in hands, holding Canadian Flag in hand.

How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit

A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to pursue academic programs at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

Once accepted by a DLI (such as a college or university), students must also obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)—unless exempt—before submitting a study permit application to IRCC.

Overview Of Canadian Study Permit

Applicants may include accompanying family members in their Canadian study permit application. Eligible spouses or common-law partners may apply for an open work permit, and minor children may be able to enroll in Canadian elementary or secondary schools.

Note: Canadian study permit is generally required unless:

  • The program is six months or shorter.
  • The applicant qualifies under a specific exemption, such as minor children or certain special cases.

Steps to Obtain a Canadian Study Permit

It’s important to apply immediately after receiving a Letter of Acceptance, as processing times can vary and often increase during peak periods like summer.

To qualify for a Canadian study permit, applicants must:

  1. Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution.
  2. Obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located (unless exempt).
  3. Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover:
    • First-year tuition
    • Living expenses
    • Return transportation
  4. If studying in Quebec, obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from the province.
  5. Have no criminal record. IRCC may request a police certificate.
  6. Be in good health. A medical exam may be required.
  7. Convince the immigration officer of intent to leave Canada upon completion of studies.

Additional documents may include:

  • Valid passport (for the applicant and family members)
  • Two passport photos per person with name and DOB on the back
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Any additional documentation required by the visa office

Proof of Financial Support

Canadian study permit applicants must prove they can financially support themselves and any accompanying family for the duration of their studies. Acceptable forms of proof include:

  • Canadian bank account in the applicant’s name
  • Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
  • Proof of student loans
  • Bank statements (past four months)
  • Bank drafts in convertible currency
  • Proof of tuition and housing payment
  • Sponsorship letter from a person or institution
  • Evidence of scholarships or financial aid

Friends or relatives may also submit support letters confirming financial assistance.

If the Application is Approved

Successful applicants will receive:

  • A Letter of Introduction (LOI) to present upon arrival in Canada. This is not the study permit but is used by immigration officers to issue it.
  • An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required. The eTA is electronically linked to the passport used in the application.
  • A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if the applicant is from a TRV-required country. This will be placed in the passport and indicate single or multiple entry. All applicants are automatically considered for multiple-entry TRVs.

No separate application is needed for a TRV or eTA—these are issued alongside the LOI if the application is approved.

Study Permit Renewal and Changes

If your academic program changes during your stay, you may need to renew or update your Canadian study permit. However, you do not need a new permit to change your:

  • Program of study
  • Institution
  • Level of education

You must inform IRCC of any such changes.

After Graduation: Next Steps

Canadian Study permits automatically expire 90 days after graduation, regardless of the expiry date printed on the permit. It’s crucial to update your status with IRCC within this period to avoid losing legal status.

Graduates may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years. Work experience gained through a PGWP can help when applying for permanent residency through programs such as:

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

If a PGWP isn’t pursued, graduates can maintain legal status by:

  • Changing to visitor status
  • Applying for another eligible work permit
  • Applying for a new study permit (e.g., to pursue graduate studies)
  • Leaving Canada

For more information on how you can apply for a Canadian Study Permit, you may contact Fairworld Immigration Consulting at +1 604 902 6356 or mgn@fairworldimmigration.ca

Similar Posts