STUDY PERMIT
Coming to Canada as an International Student is not only your key to unlocking a world- class education in Canada, but is also the runway on your journey to become a Permanent Resident.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL
Choosing the right educational institution is a crucial first step for studying in Canada. If PR is your ultimate goal, it is extremely important that you choose a Public Post Secondary institution. One way to check whether you are considering the right school is to find out if it is eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit, you can do this by clicking here
Some DLIs are private post secondary institutions, and once you complete your program, you have reached a dead end, with no open work permit to move you forward to PR. Once you are accepted by a DLI and have a Letter of Acceptance in hand you can start the process for obtaining a study permit – which could be the first step on your PR journey.
RULES AND REQUIREMENTS
The Canadian authorities have established specific criteria for approving study permit applications. One of the main reasons for application denial is the inability to provide adequate proof as required by immigration officials. Crucially, applicants must show:
Demonstrate financial stability, ensuring you can fund your education entirely on your own without relying on government assistance. You must show capability to manage your living expenses throughout your educational tenure in Canada.
Secure and present an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
Submit proof of identity, typically including your passport and photographs. (Be aware that specific document requirements may vary based on your country of origin.)
POST GRADUATE WORK PERMITS (PGWP)
Upon graduating from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), international students may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit, valid for up to three years. This permit is an open work permit, meaning it’s not restricted to a specific employer, occupation, or location, allowing graduates to work in any role across Canada. Graduates have 180 days after completing their study requirements to apply for this permit, and applications can be made either from within Canada or from abroad.
Costs Involved
Annual expenses for tuition and living costs range between C$20,000 to C$30,000. The cost of living will vary depending on the province/area you decide to study in.
Co-op Work Permits
In Canada, certain study programs incorporate internships, known as co-op placements, necessitating students to acquire a co-op work permit alongside their study permit. To qualify for this permit, students must already hold a study permit, have an internship that counts towards their credit hours, and possess a confirmation letter from their institution about the internship’s necessity.
Processing Time
The duration for processing study permits can differ significantly, largely influenced by the applicant’s country of residence. While some applicants may receive their permits within 1 to 2 weeks, others might face a waiting period of up to 16 weeks. This variation is primarily due to the number of applications being processed. Applicants should be aware that applying near the start of Canada’s academic year could result in longer processing times due to increased application volume.
Language Requirements
To enroll in a Canadian school, proficiency in either English or French is required, with language proficiency standards varying across post-secondary institutions. It’s important to check the specific language requirements of your chosen program, as some schools may allow concurrent English language courses or waive formal proof of language skills for students from English-speaking backgrounds or with prior education in English. Always verify the exact language criteria for your intended school.
Working on a Study Permit
International students in Canada benefit from the opportunity to work, aiding in covering tuition and living expenses. They are permitted to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks like summer vacation. Most students can work without a separate work permit, with their study permit specifying off-campus work eligibility.
Work Permits for your Partner
Spouses or common-law partners of foreign students with a valid study permit in Canada are eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time during the study permit’s validity. The student must meet qualifying criteria in order for their partner to be eligible.
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