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In order to study in any of Canada’s Designated Learning Institutions, international students must first obtain a Canada Study Permit (along with a student visa) (DLIs). For many international students from all around the world, Canada is the best and most attractive destination. If you want to study in Canada, you’ll need to know everything there is to know about the Canada study permit and the procedures. In Canada, you may be permitted to work part-time while studying.
Applying for a Canadian study permit entails a number of steps, and the procedures differ from nation to country. Our step-by-step instructions will show you how to apply for a study permit in Canada. It will provide you with information on processing times as well as other important details for a successful application.
What is Canada Study Permit ?
Table of Interests
A Canadian study permit is a document that is normally provided to international students who travel to Canada to study at any recognized learning institution. This paper provides you with legal authority to study in Canada.
Furthermore, you should be aware that when applying for a study visa, there are some restrictions and regulations that must be completed. As a result, before applying, double-check that all of your documents are in order and in good condition.
It’s also important to note that your Canadian study permit is not the same as a Canadian visa. A student visa allows you to travel to Canada to study. A study permit, on the other hand, offers you permission to stay in the country. It also depends on where you were born. You do not need a visa to enter Canada if your country is on the Visa Exempt Countries list. When a foreign student’s study permit expires, he or she has the option of renewing it. You have an additional 90 days to apply for a visa extension or depart Canada.
Documents requirements for Canada Study Permit
In order to obtain a Canadian study permit, a prospective foreign student must:
- Have obtained a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada.
- Show prove of an adequate fund to cover tuition fees and other living expenses.
- Prove to the Canadian immigration officer that will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
- Be admissible to Canada. In other words, they must have a clean criminal and/or medical records. The applicant may also be required to provide a police certificate to prove their status.
There are other additional requirements, depending on the student’s circumstances or country of origin.
Apply for Study Permit from Outside Canada ?
You may be possible to apply for a study permit from outside Canada, regardless of where you are staying.
The COVID-19 situation, however, has had an impact on most foreigners’ trip plans, especially international students. While travel restrictions are in place, Canada has taken particular procedures to assist students who wish to begin their studies outside of the country.
You may need to go to any Canadian visa office near you to apply for a study permit in Canada. However, you must first obtain an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
The acceptance letter must be produced on official letterhead by the Canadian institution (e.g., college, university, etc.) and must include the precise amount of tuition fees due, the estimated starting and completion dates, and the registration deadline.
Once you’ve received your acceptance letter, you’ll need to fill out and submit an application for a study permit.
Apply Study Permit from Within Canada
From within Canada, you can apply for a study permit. In some cases, you can apply at the port of entry when you arrive in Canada (POE). You can also submit an application as a visitor. However, applying online is recommended because it is handled faster and you receive updates and information on the status of your application straight in your online account.
When you apply, you should submit the following documents:
- the acceptance letter issued to you by the DLI you will be attending.
- as many of the documents required for a complete application as possible.
- a letter of explanation for any missing documents due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, you may submit an application on paper. The application processes for international students studying in Canada and those studying abroad are largely the same.
Extend Study Permit In Canada
Foreign students must have a valid study permit in order to renew or extend their study permit. If your study permission expires before you finish your program, you must apply for a study permit renewal. Normally, you should apply at least 30 days before to the expiration of your current study permit. Candidates can send their applications in the mail or submit them online.
If you have completed your studies, on the other hand, you may be qualified to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). You may find more information on how to apply for PGWP on our resource page.
If they are no longer studying, some students may choose to convert their status to guest or apply for PGWP. However, keep in mind that these processes have a time limit, which is normally 90 days, after which you will no longer be able to renew your status.
Obtaining Work Permit After Study In Canada ?
There are a variety of programs available to you if you wish to stay in Canada after graduation.
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) basically allows you to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which will improve your chances of getting a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) visa. The PGWP can be awarded for up to three years, depending on the length of your program of study.
If you completed a two-year master’s degree program, for example, you may be eligible for a three-year work permit if you meet the requirements. If you successfully finished an eight-month certificate program, you may be eligible for an eight-month work permit in Canada.
The Canadian Experience Class visa allows international graduates to smoothly transition from temporary to permanent residence in Canada.
Candidates who understand Canadian society and can contribute to economic prosperity are eligible to apply. The ability to communicate in English or French, as well as relevant job experience, is required.
Studying in Canada has long been a dream of many students and it is understandably so because when it comes to education, Canada consistently ranks as one of the best countries in the world. Canada is a host to over 250,000 international students and it is still receiving a huge increase in demand from overseas students in recent years. In addition to providing world class educational opportunities and affordable tuition costs, undeniably, Canada offers a unique opportunity to study abroad.
What is a Canada Student Visa?
To start off, interested applicants must apply for a student visa. The Canada student visa is a type of visa issued to foreign students who wish to study at Canadian educational institutions. Although it is a single-entry visa, it will not prevent you from entering or leaving Canada at any other time of the year. Meaning to say, visa permit holders can remain in Canada until the end of their study program, although that length of stay can vary from the degree or educational program that they’re taking.
The need to obtain a student visa is important in order to be authorized to study on their designated learning institution (DLI) or a recognized educational institution in Canada that is authorized to accept international students. The Canadian government has put in place this recognition system for DLIs and students to ensure that they are monitored and regulated in the best way possible so make sure to apply in DLIs because otherwise, your study visa will be revoked.
Documents Required for Canada Study Visa
In order to apply for a Canada student visa, you will need to meet a number of requirements and submit the necessary documents. Make sure to check out this study visa checklist to take note of what you need to accomplish next:
1. Letter of acceptance from a DLI
Do take note that all minors can only study at certain DLIs with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan unless the student is fully vaccinated.
2. Valid Passport that covers your stay in Canada
3. Study plan
4. Immigration medical exam
5. Police verification certificate to check the applicant’s criminal record
6. Financial documents
To prove that you can cover your expenses such as your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs throughout your stay in Canada, including your return fare to your home country. The minimum bank balance for Canada student visa is 10,000 CAD or PHP 435,088 per yearly stay must be seen or on any of the following:
- Canadian bank account
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
- Student loan or education loan
- Bank statements of past 4 months
- Bank draft
- Proof of paid tuition and housing fee
- Letter from a person or school that has provided you with funds
- Proof of funding paid from within Canada
Keep in mind that students who are interested in applying in Quebec, must also submit a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) or a letter of approval for CAQ.
Canada Study Visa Fees
To apply for a Canadian study visa, you will need to pay a fee of 150 CAD or PHP 6,525. For some countries, an additional 200 CAD or PHP 8701.20 is required.
On top of these costs, there will be a medical exam or health insurance expenses included every time you come to Canada. Keeping that in mind, it’s easier for people who live in the Philippines to complete this part earlier in their application process as there are many clinics and hospitals that provide affordable services, even at 24 hours a day.
Mandatory Steps and Canada Student Visa Processing Time to Keep in Mind for Applicants
Step 1: Letter of Acceptance
A study permit allows you to study in Canada, however, you must first obtain a standardized letter of acceptance from a recognized higher education provider. Moreover, an additional requirement such as a certificate of acceptance, known as a CAQ, is required if the DIL is in Quebec. You can get this online, by printing out a form, or by requesting a paper form from your university.
Step 2: Visa Application
The next step is to apply on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. You will be asked some questions to test your eligibility for a permit. Once qualified to apply, you may need to collect a list of documents that are required by the CIC in order for them to process your application. Do take note that 4-6 months before your university program starts, your visa application should have been issued already as it might take a while to process an application. Keep in mind that delay in completing this requirement will likewise delay your application process.
Step 3: Temporary Residence Permit
While you are applying for your visa, some countries will also require you to apply for a temporary residence permit. This will be asked from you together with your documents for your Canada student visa.
Once you have received your temporary residence permit, you’ll be a step closer to obtaining your Canadian student visa and moving abroad as an international student.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay the Fee
For the final step of your application process, make sure that all application forms, documents, and payments are ready to submit to the Canada Immigration website. The Canada student visa processing time usually takes up to 90 days so make sure to submit early. More importantly, know that you do not need to visit the visa office in person, although some candidates may have to attend an interview
What Is Canada Student Visa?
The Canadian government issues the Canada Student visa to international students who wish to continue their higher education in Canada. The Canada Student visa permits international students to study at a DLI in Canada.
The DLI are Canadian-licensed institutions where international students could apply to gain admission. With the Canada Student visa and study permit international students will stand a chance to qualify for a work permit in Canada during and after their studies and could extend their stay with other Canadian visa types.
However, the Canada Student visa doesn’t give international students full permission to stay and study in Canada. This is why international students need to get a Study Permit to be able to live and study in Canada.
The number of international students in Canada continues to increase yearly as a result of having diverse cultures and prestigious universities and colleges. Because of this, there are thousands of Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes for international students in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada Student Visa
To qualify for a Student visa to Canada, you need to meet some eligibility criteria. You need to:
- Prove that you have enough funds to pay your tuition and living costs.
- Possess a DLI’s letter of acceptance.
- Have no immigration-related or criminal convictions.
- Prove that you will leave Canada once you’ve completed your studies.
- Get a medical certificate after having a medical examination to prove your health status.
Types of Canada Student Visa
There are two forms of Student visa to Canada from Nigeria you can apply for. They include:
- The Temporary Resident visa, also known as a Valid Visitor visa, if the course study duration will be less than 6 months.
- The Student visa designed for students whose course study duration will be more than 6 months.
Canada Student Visa Requirements
To apply for the Student visa to Canada from Nigeria, as a Nigerian, you need to:
- Get the original and photocopy of your national passport which must at least have a 6-month validity of your stay in Canada and two blank spaces.
- Provide your motivation or cover letter that proves to the consular officer that you’re passionate about your course of study and the reason they should grant your application.
- Get two of your recently captured colour photographs revealing your entire face. With sizes 35 to 40mm, captured clearly on a plain background.
- Bring your flight reservation ticket showing the time and date of your arrival in Canada.
- Confirm that you have a hotel reservation if your proposed school doesn’t have accommodation.
- Get proof of acceptance from the Canadian institution that has offered you admission gave to you including your student permit application.
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses while studying in Canada. You’re expected to have about $11,000 (CAD) in your personal bank account for your needs apart from tuition fees. You can present a bank statement for this but if you have a bank statement of your sponsor, you must include a sponsorship affidavit in your document.
- Get all your previously attended institutions’ certificates, including transcripts and other proofs showing your attendance at those institutions.
- Proof of English proficiency. Meet the IELTS requirement for the Canada Student visa as a Nigerian.
- Provide your introduction letter from your employer (if any).
- Present your medical report showing proof of your good health and medical history.
- Get certificates that show your social ties. For example the birth certificate of your child (if you have a child) or marriage certificate (if you’re married).
Canada Student Visa Process
Overview
To apply for the Student visa to Canada from Nigeria you need to follow a step-by-step guide. The guide includes how to apply for Student visa in Canada:
Gaining Admission
To apply for a student visa to Canada from Nigeria, you need to apply for admission at a DLI institution in Canada. Therefore, you must have gotten an admission letter from a college authorised by the Canadian government to host international students in Canada before you apply.
Get Supporting Documents
Fill out the student permission form and bring all the documents mentioned earlier. These documents will be important to you because you’ll need them at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Ensure to photocopy each document and scan them into electric devices like a flash drive, computer, etc.
Pay the Processing Fees
Understand that visa fees must be paid in addition to Visa Facilitation Services Global (VFS) fees when filing an application via the VFS, by mail, or in person. In every circumstance, the processing charge is not refundable.
You must pay the relevant processing fees for your spouse or common-law partner and/or children if they are traveling with you and you are applying for work permits, temporary resident visas or study permits for them.
File Your Application at the Visa Application Centre
Once you submit your application and make the required payments, you’ll be given a tracking number along with a receipt and have your application processed. The status of your application will be monitored using your tracking number. Therefore you need to get ready for an interview.
Follow Up Your Application Online
Tracking your application online will be beneficial to you to follow your application’s progress for updates or extra requests and to know when your passport is ready for pick up.
Get Your Passport
The following step is to visit the visa application centre to get your visa once it has been issued to you. Once your passport is ready for pick up, you’ll be notified about it.
Canada Student Visa Fees
There are fees involved in order to get the Canada Student visa. You need to pay for the Canada Study permit which costs CAN$150.
You have to pay the Canada visa application which is available online and offline when submitting your visa application. These visa processing fees can be made through credit card (online) or through demand draft if making payments at the Canadian High Commission (offline) or at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) through cash.
It should be noted that VAC service charges are not included in the visa fee. Therefore you’ll need to pay the additional service charges applicable to Nigerians which is CAN$45. Ensure you keep all the receipts that will be issued to you at this stage as they will prove you have made these fee payments.
After you’ve submitted your visa application, you need to submit a biometric fee of CAN$85. You have to submit this fee along with your biometric fee. Thereafter they’ll take your biometric at a VAC.
Canada Student Visa Application: Online and Paper
You can either apply online or on paper for the Canada Student visa.
Applying Online
To apply online, you will need a camera or scanner to scan your papers into an electronic format for uploading. Also, you will need a working credit card to cover the application fee. At the local VAC, you will still be needed to submit your biometrics.
Keep in mind that if you submitted an online application, you would also need to visit the VFS offices to submit your passports and the receipt for your fee payments. The only difference between the processes would be the documents you’d need to provide to the VAC.
Applying on Paper
Read the instructions and get the application kit. Important details about study permits are provided in the instruction manual, along with instructions on how to complete your application.
Complete the document checklist and thoroughly read the instruction manual. You may only submit a paper application if you can’t apply online because of disability or if you possess the travel document or identity for non-citizen residents, stateless persons, or refugees.
Documents Checklist for Canada Student Visa
The supporting documents you’d need for the Canada Student visa application include the following:
Proof of Acceptance by a DLI
You should have the letter of acceptance from the college or institute you intend to attend. A university that has been approved by the Immigration Department is known as a DLI.
A CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) issued by the Canadian government is also required if you are applying for Quebec. You will receive information on the CAQ application from your university or college. But you do not need a CAQ if your studies will last fewer than 6 months.
Valid Passport
In order to apply for a Study Permit, you’d need a valid passport. You should have a passport that has a validity that can cover all your intended stay in Canada. For example, if you have a 2-year course to study in Canada which should begin in September 2023, then your passport should be valid until September 2025.
Passport Size Photographs
If you choose to submit your application offline, you will need two passport-sized photos that meet the requirements. The digital copy of the photo you must get shouldn’t be larger than 4MB, for an online application.
Additionally, there must be a neutral facial expression, a plain background, and no headgear (unless worn for religious reasons).
The image should be recent and not older than 6 months. Your passport image size should be a minimum of 35 mm x 45 mm. Your date of birth and name must be boldly written on the back of each photo.
Statement of Purpose
The letter of explanation is another name for this. You would be expected to write an essay when requesting a Canadian Study Permit outlining why you are visiting Canada and how you understand your obligations as a student.
Proof of Funds
You would need to present financial documentation when applying for your study permit. You would have to show that you would have enough money to cover both your tuition and living expenses under the current requirements.
According to Canadian Immigration, a minimum bank balance for a Canadian Student visa applicant is CAN$10,000 which should be available for each year of your stay. Additionally, you must prove that you have the resources necessary for a return trip.
You can prove you have enough funds in the following ways:
- Show your past 4 months’ bank statement.
- Have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating financial institution in Canada.
- Prove that you have paid your house and tuition fees.
- Provide the funds in your Canadian bank account (if you have one).
- Showing that you have a student or education loan.
- Evidence of funding made within Canada especially when related to a Canadian-funded educational programme or scholarship.
- Get a letter from a school or person that has supported you with funds.
- Provide a bank draft that is convertible to Canadian dollars.
English Language Proficiency Exam Score
It is recommended to meet Canada student visa English requirements. Therefore, you must have an English Language Proficiency Exam and have a good score before applying for a Canada Student visa. TOEFL and IELTS are some of the accepted English proficiency tests to confirm the admission of applicants to a Canadian University.
Immigration Medical Examination (IME) and Biometrics
All international students from Nigeria are required to take a compulsory medical examination. Therefore, typically a week before starting visa applications, all Nigerian applicant students have to book medical appointments with licensed medical doctors.
It’s recommended that you book an appointment in advance with the licensed doctor nearest to you. The panel doctor will do a thorough physical examination and might recommend blood work and a chest X-ray for you. The doctor will send Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) the findings after your examination.
You must go to an official Visa Application Centre to get your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) taken if you are applying from outside of Canada and have never provided your biometrics previously. And you’ll pay CAN$85 for the biometrics.
Canada Student Visa Processing Time for Nigeria-Based Applicants
There’s no exact processing time of the Canada Student visa for Nigeria-based applicants. Your application may be processed within 20 days, but the visa processing time usually takes 90 days. Generally, how long it takes to process your Canada Student visa depends on the situation in Nigeria.
Dependents of Canada Student Visa Holders
Your spouse can join you in Canada on a dependent visa. You’ll just need to prove that you have enough funds to support them financially.
Spouses may choose to work full-time in Canada if their stay is up to a year or more. Sometimes, your spouse might need to apply for an open work permit if he or she would like to come along with you to Canada.
The open work permit will allow your partner, spouse or common-law partner to find and accept any job when they get to Canada. Additionally, your spouse wouldn’t need a positive labour market impact assessment or job offer to apply for your work permit.
Common Reasons for Canada Student Visa Rejection
There are some reasons behind the rejections of Canada Student visa. The following includes reasons for rejections and solutions:
- Poor letter of acceptance. You need to provide a good acceptance letter from a registered DLI in Canada.
- Incomplete documentation. If you forget to add some vital documents like your travel documents and language test score, your application may be refused.
- No plan to return to Nigeria. You must prove that you have a plan to return to Nigeria.
- Insufficient funds. You need to show that you can cater for your needs in Canada for more than a year.
You will be informed in the refusal letter of the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) decision if your study permit is still denied. You are free to reapply for your study visa at any time, but you must make sure that the problems with your first application have been resolved.
You always have the option to file an appeal if you believe your initial application was improperly refused.
How Can IAS Help?
Nigerians can apply for the Canada Student visa to continue their studies in Canada. Many Nigerians have successfully immigrated to Canada and have gained employment during and after their studies.
However, there have been some refusals of the Canada Student visa to Nigerian applicants because of their inability to meet the eligibility criteria, such as not having enough funds and incomplete documentation.
This is why it’s important to have expert guidance throughout your Canada Student visa application process. IAS can help you through this situation.
We are professional and experienced immigration lawyers that have a track record of helping so many applicants apply and get any type of visa they qualify for.
We can guide you through your documentation process and help you submit your application in accordance with the standard of the IRCC. We will also give you tips on how to get prepared and pass your interview without stress.
For more information regarding the Student Visa to Canada from Nigeria, or any other immigration related topic, get in touch with us on +23413438882 or +44 (0) 3316300929, or contact us online.
Proof of acceptance
Your school must send you a letter of acceptance. Include the original or electronic copy of your letter with your study permit application.
Conditional acceptance and prerequisite courses
If you’ve been conditionally accepted, you need to take prerequisite courses. For example, these might be English as a second language or French as a second language courses. You must complete these before you can start your main study program.
If this is the case, we’ll only issue your study permit for the length of those courses plus 1 year. Once you’re accepted into your main program, you’ll need to apply for a new student permit to extend your stay as a student.
Exceptions
If you’re the family member of someone who has a study permit or work permit application that’s been approved in writing before you come to Canada, you don’t need a letter of acceptance.
Proof of identity
When applying for your study permit, you and each family member who comes with you to Canada must have
- a valid passport or travel document
- Online applicants: Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online.
- If you’re approved, you must send us your original passport.
- Citizens of the United States have some options on the identification documents they can carry.
- Lawful permanent residents of the United States must travel with a valid green card (or equivalent official proof of status in the U.S.) and a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent document).
- Online applicants: Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online.
- two recent passport-size photos
- The name and date of birth of the person should be written on the back of each photo.
Proof of financial support
You must prove that you can support yourself and the family members who come with you while you are in Canada.
You can prove your funds with
- proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you’ve transferred money to Canada
- a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
- proof of a student or education loan from a bank
- your bank statements for the past 4 months
- a bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
- proof you paid tuition and housing fees
- a letter from the person or school giving you money, or
- proof of funding paid from within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program
Minimum funds needed to support yourself as a student (and family members who come with you)
| Persons coming to Canada | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) | Amount of funds required per month (not including tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| You (the student) | CAN$10,000 | CAN$833 |
| First family member | CAN$4,000 | CAN$333 |
| Every additional accompanying family member | CAN$3,000 | CAN$255 |
Example
If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need
- living expenses: $10,000 (for the student)
- living expenses: $4,000 (for the first family member)
- living expenses: $3,000 (for the second family member)
Total: $17,000
| People coming to Canada | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) | Amount of funds required per month (not including tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person under the age of 18 | CAN$6,569 | CAN$547 |
| 1 person aged 18 or over | CAN$13,134 | CAN$1,095 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over | CAN$19,264 | CAN$1,605 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over and 1 person under the age of 18 | CAN$21,579 | CAN$1,798 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over and 2 people under the age of 18 | CAN$23,290 | CAN$1,941 |
If your country uses foreign-exchange controls, you must prove that you’ll be allowed to export funds for all of your expenses.
Letter of explanation
This letter helps the visa officer to understand you and your goals. It explains
- why you want to study in Canada
- that you understand your responsibilities as a student
You should include this letter if you decide to apply for a study permit, even if you don’t have to get a study permit for your program.
Quebec Acceptance Certificate
If you want to study in Quebec for longer than 6 months, you need an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) issued by the Government of Quebec. Your school can tell you how to apply for the CAQ.
Find out about the process and the documents you need for studying in Quebec.
If you plan to study in Quebec for less than 6 months, you can apply for a study permit without a CAQ.
Medical exam
You may need a medical exam if any of these situations apply to you:
- You plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months.
- You recently spent time in certain countries.
- You plan to work in certain jobs where public health must be protected.
Custodian declaration (minor children)
If the minor requires a custodian, you must include the Custodianship Declaration form (PDF, 1.02 MB) with your application. It has 2 pages that must be notarized (certified by a notary) and then included with your study permit application.
The custodian in Canada must sign the first page, and the parents or legal guardians of the minor child in the child’s home country must sign the second page.
Other documents
Check the visa office instructions for your country or region for local requirements.
If you aren’t currently in your home country, you may have to prove your immigration status in the country you apply from.
If the government that issued your passport or travel document needs you to have a re-entry permit, you must get one before you apply for a Canadian visa. You may also need other documents.
If we request documents from you for an application in progress
- We’ll contact you to request the supporting documents.
- This will happen in the next few months.
- You’ll have 30 days from the date we contact you to submit the information.
- Start collecting your documents.
- Do this before we contact you. It can take time to get certain documents.
- Check the last email we sent you to confirm what you need to submit.
- Don’t travel to another city or country to get the supporting documents.
- We’ll consider extending your deadline if you have a reasonable explanation that shows you’re affected by COVID-19.
Proof of acceptance
Your school must send you a letter of acceptance. Include the original or electronic copy of your letter with your study permit application.
Conditional acceptance and prerequisite courses
If you’ve been conditionally accepted, you need to take prerequisite courses. For example, these might be English as a second language or French as a second language courses. You must complete these before you can start your main study program.
If this is the case, we’ll only issue your study permit for the length of those courses plus 1 year. Once you’re accepted into your main program, you’ll need to apply for a new student permit to extend your stay as a student.
Exceptions
If you’re the family member of someone who has a study permit or work permit application that’s been approved in writing before you come to Canada, you don’t need a letter of acceptance.
Proof of identity
When applying for your study permit, you and each family member who comes with you to Canada must have
- a valid passport or travel document
- Online applicants: Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online.
- If you’re approved, you must send us your original passport.
- Citizens of the United States have some options on the identification documents they can carry.
- Lawful permanent residents of the United States must travel with a valid green card (or equivalent official proof of status in the U.S.) and a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent document).
- Online applicants: Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online.
- two recent passport-size photos
- The name and date of birth of the person should be written on the back of each photo.
Proof of financial support
You must prove that you can support yourself and the family members who come with you while you are in Canada.
You can prove your funds with
- proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you’ve transferred money to Canada
- a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
- proof of a student or education loan from a bank
- your bank statements for the past 4 months
- a bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
- proof you paid tuition and housing fees
- a letter from the person or school giving you money, or
- proof of funding paid from within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program
Minimum funds needed to support yourself as a student (and family members who come with you)
| Persons coming to Canada | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) | Amount of funds required per month (not including tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| You (the student) | CAN$10,000 | CAN$833 |
| First family member | CAN$4,000 | CAN$333 |
| Every additional accompanying family member | CAN$3,000 | CAN$255 |
Example
If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need
- living expenses: $10,000 (for the student)
- living expenses: $4,000 (for the first family member)
- living expenses: $3,000 (for the second family member)
Total: $17,000
| People coming to Canada | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) | Amount of funds required per month (not including tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person under the age of 18 | CAN$6,569 | CAN$547 |
| 1 person aged 18 or over | CAN$13,134 | CAN$1,095 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over | CAN$19,264 | CAN$1,605 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over and 1 person under the age of 18 | CAN$21,579 | CAN$1,798 |
| 2 people aged 18 or over and 2 people under the age of 18 | CAN$23,290 | CAN$1,941 |
If your country uses foreign-exchange controls, you must prove that you’ll be allowed to export funds for all of your expenses.
Letter of explanation
This letter helps the visa officer to understand you and your goals. It explains
- why you want to study in Canada
- that you understand your responsibilities as a student
You should include this letter if you decide to apply for a study permit, even if you don’t have to get a study permit for your program.
Quebec Acceptance Certificate
If you want to study in Quebec for longer than 6 months, you need an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) issued by the Government of Quebec. Your school can tell you how to apply for the CAQ.
Find out about the process and the documents you need for studying in Quebec.
If you plan to study in Quebec for less than 6 months, you can apply for a study permit without a CAQ.
Medical exam
You may need a medical exam if any of these situations apply to you:
- You plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months.
- You recently spent time in certain countries.
- You plan to work in certain jobs where public health must be protected.
Custodian declaration (minor children)
If the minor requires a custodian, you must include the Custodianship Declaration form (PDF, 1.02 MB) with your application. It has 2 pages that must be notarized (certified by a notary) and then included with your study permit application.
The custodian in Canada must sign the first page, and the parents or legal guardians of the minor child in the child’s home country must sign the second page.
Other documents
Check the visa office instructions for your country or region for local requirements.
If you aren’t currently in your home country, you may have to prove your immigration status in the country you apply from.
If the government that issued your passport or travel document needs you to have a re-entry permit, you must get one before you apply for a Canadian visa. You may also need other documents.
If we request documents from you for an application in progress
- We’ll contact you to request the supporting documents.
- This will happen in the next few months.
- You’ll have 30 days from the date we contact you to submit the information.
- Start collecting your documents.
- Do this before we contact you. It can take time to get certain documents.
- Check the last email we sent you to confirm what you need to submit.
- Don’t travel to another city or country to get the supporting documents.
- We’ll consider extending your deadline if you have a reasonable explanation that shows you’re affected by COVID-19.
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Orientações valiosas para uma ampla gama de necessidades e interesses.
Valuable guidance for a wide range of needs and interests.
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