Studying in Canada

A Study Permit allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada for programs longer than six months. While the study permit gives you permission to stay and study, you may also need a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, depending on your nationality.

Key Requirements:

• Letter of Acceptance: You must have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Proof of Financial Support: Show that you have enough funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
• Clean Background: You may need a police clearance certificate and medical examination.
• Intent to Leave: Demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies unless you apply to extend your stay.

How to Apply:

1. Receive Letter of Acceptance: Secure a spot at a designated learning institution in Canada.
2. Gather Documents: Include your acceptance letter, proof of funds, passport, and other supporting documents.
3. Submit Online Application: Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
4. Receive Visa/ETA: If required, your visa or eTA will be issued automatically with your study permit approval.

Entry to Canada:

A study permit alone does not allow entry to Canada. A valid Visitor Visa or eTA is required depending on your country of citizenship.

If you need more time to complete your study program in Canada or are transitioning to a new program, you must apply for a Study Permit Extension before your current permit expires. A valid study permit is required to continue studying in Canada legally.

Key Requirements:

• Current Enrollment: You must be actively studying at a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Proof of Academic Progress: Show that you are making satisfactory progress in your program.
• Sufficient Funds: Provide evidence that you can continue to support yourself financially during your extended stay.

How to Apply:

1. Submit Application Early: Apply at least 30 days before your current study permit expires.
2. Gather Required Documents: Include proof of enrollment, financial support, and any additional documents requested.
3. Implied Status: If you apply before your current permit expires, you may remain in Canada and continue studying under implied status until a decision is made.

Important Notes:

• Failing to extend your permit before it expires can result in loss of student status, and you may need to restore your status, which can be more complex.
• If your program ends before the permit expires, your permit may remain valid, but you cannot use it to continue studying unless it is extended.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed their studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) to gain valuable Canadian work experience. This open work permit is often a critical step toward permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

Key Requirements:

• Completion of a Program: You must have completed a full-time program of at least eight months at an eligible DLI.
• Apply Within 180 Days: You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final marks or a letter confirming the completion of your program.
• Work Duration: The length of the work permit depends on the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years.

How to Apply:

1. Obtain Completion Documents: Secure a completion letter or final transcript from your institution.
2. Submit Application: Apply online through the IRCC website, including your academic documents, passport, and proof of previous study permit.
3. Processing Time: PGWP applications can take several weeks, but you can begin working as soon as your application is submitted if you held a valid study permit at the time of application.

Benefits:

• Work Flexibility: A PGWP allows you to work for any employer in Canada.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained through a PGWP can count towards your eligibility for permanent residency through Express Entry.