DIS

Canadian Study Permit 

A study permit in Canada is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for international students. It allows them to study at designated learning institutions. A study permit is required if the length of your program is six months or more. Those who are applying for a Co-op program must also apply for a work permit. The study permit will often be issued for the length of your study program. Some individuals, including minor children, may qualify for study permit exemptions.

Study Permit Vs. Visa

Note that a study permit is not a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need a travel visa to enter Canada and reach the Port of Entry (POE).

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of visa-exempt countries do not need a visa to enter Canada. They can travel directly to the POE to receive their study permit. However, an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may still be required for air travel to Canada.

Non-Visa Exempt Countries

Citizens of non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a visa before traveling to Canada. If your study permit application is approved, the visa officer will issue a travel visa, allowing you to enter the country.

What is a DLI

A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. To apply for a Canadian study permit, you must have a letter of acceptance (LOA) from a DLI. You must provide the DLI number on you study permit application form. Selecting the appropriate DLI and program is crucial if you plan to work in Canada after graduation. Not all DLIs and programs make you eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Ensure your chosen institution and program qualify for PGWP eligibility.

Loss of DLI Status

If your chosen institution loses its DLI status, the impact depends on the timing:

  • Before Applying: If you apply with a letter from a non-DLI, your study permit application will be refused.
  • After Applying but Before Permit Issuance: You can withdraw your application, submit a letter from a different DLI, or proceed, understanding the application will be refused.
  • After Permit Issuance: You may transfer to another DLI or continue studying at the non-designated institution until your permit expires. Note that you cannot renew a study permit for a non-designated institution.

As of November 8, 2024, international students wishing to change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada must apply for a new study permit by extending their current one.

Changing DLIs

  1. Obtain a New Letter of Acceptance: Secure admission to your desired DLI and receive an official acceptance letter. Additionally, you must gather all other required documents.
  2. Apply for a New Study Permit: Submit your application for a study permit extension, including all required documents.
When You Can Begin Studying at the New DLI

You may start studying at your new DLI while your study permit is being processed if:

  • You have remained in Canada since receiving the new acceptance letter.
  • You continue to meet the conditions of your current study permit.
  • Your previous DLI closed, discontinued your program, was suspended, or lost its designated status.
Important Considerations
  • Co-op Programs: If you’re switching to a co-op program at a different school, you must apply for a new co-op work permit.
  • DLI Status: Ensure your new institution is a recognized DLI and not on the suspension list.
  • Compliance: Failing to follow the proper process for changing DLIs can affect your study permit status and future applications.

By carefully selecting a DLI and program, you can enhance your educational experience in Canada and maintain compliance with immigration requirements.

Study Permit Application

Most Canadian post-secondary programs start in September, January, or May, but some institutions offer additional intakes. Since you cannot apply for a study permit without an acceptance letter, check the admission deadlines and application process for your chosen school well in advance. This allows enough time to receive your acceptance letter and complete your study permit application before your program’s start date. To qualify for a Canadian study permit, you must meet specific requirements. Below is a concise guide to these criteria.

Valid Travel Document

You need a valid passport or lawful travel document to apply.

Acceptance Letter

Secure a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI in Canada before applying. The LOA must include all the information that IRCC includes, otherwise your application could be delayed, returned or rejected.

Proof of Financial Support

Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover:

  • First-year tuition fees.
  • Living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members.
  • Return transportation costs for all parties.

Funds should be in liquid form and can be under your name or that of a sponsor.

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

As of January 22, 2024, most study permit applicants must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) with their application. This letter confirms that the applicant has a place in the province’s allocation of study permit applications. Exceptions include students at the primary or secondary level, and certain cases in Quebec.

Medical Examination

In most cases, after a visa officer receives an application for a study permit, they will request that the student and accompanying family member(s) complete a medical exam.

Police Clearance Certificate

In some cases, after a visa officer receives an application for a study permit, they will request police clearance certificates to ensure a person is not a risk to Canadian security.

Additional Supporting Documents

Submit all required supporting documents with your application. These vary by country. Be aware that IRCC may request any additional documents during your study permit application process.

Intent to Leave Canada

You must convince the immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. Many supporting documents such as family ties and past travel history can help prove intent to leave Canada at the end of your studies.

Quebec Applicants

If you plan to study in Quebec, you must first obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) before applying for a study permit. The CAQ is issued by Quebec’s immigration authority and is mandatory for international students.

Meeting these criteria is essential for a successful study permit application. Book a consultation with DIS to ensure all your documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Study Permit Exemptions

Not all international students need a study permit to study in Canada. Here are common scenarios where a study permit is not required:

Short-Term Studies

If your program in Canada is six months or less, you don’t need a study permit. However, if you extend your studies beyond six months, you must obtain a study permit before the initial six months end.

Minor Children in Canada

Minor children (under 18 or 19, depending on the province) attending pre-school, primary, or secondary school may be exempt from needing a study permit if:

  • They or their parents are refugees or refugee claimants.
  • They are in Canada with a parent authorized to work or study.

It’s important to note that while these minors may be exempt, obtaining a study permit can provide benefits, such as facilitating the transition to post-secondary education.

Members of Foreign Armed Forces

Members of foreign armed forces on active duty in Canada under the Visiting Forces Act do not require a study permit to study. However, their family members may need study permits.

Understanding these exemptions is essential in your educational journey in Canada. Book a consultation with DIS to confirm whether you require a Study Permit to study in Canada.

Study Permit Conditions

International students in Canada must follow specific rules to maintain their study permit status. Violating these conditions can impact future immigration applications.
Once the study permit is approved, international students must adhere to specific conditions throughout their studies. They must:

  • Stay enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) – DLIs regularly report students’ enrollment status to IRCC. Maintaining active status is necessary to avoid permit invalidation.
  • Make consistent academic progress
  • Follow all conditions outlined in their study permit
  • Stop studying if they no longer meet the requirements
  • Leave Canada when their permit expires

It is essential to understand and follow these conditions to maintain your legal status as a student in Canada. Failure to comply with these conditions may result in the study permit becoming invalid, which can negatively impact future immigration applications.

Extension and Restoration

International students in Canada must maintain valid immigration status throughout their studies. If your study permit is about to expire and you wish to continue studying, you must apply for a study permit extension before the expiry date. Failing to do so could result in losing your legal status in Canada. If you apply to extend your study permit before it expires, you benefit from maintained status. This means you can continue studying and working in Canada under the same conditions as your existing permit while your application is being processed.

If your study permit has already expired, you may still have the opportunity to apply for a restoration of status within 90 days. This allows eligible students to regain their student status and continue their academic journey without leaving Canada. ​If you are applying for restoration of status, you are not authorized to work or study until your status is restored and you receive a new study permit.

Understanding the timelines and application requirements for both extension and restoration is essential to remain in compliance with IRCC regulations. Book a consultation with DIS for guidance on your Study Permit Extension Application and/or Restoration of Status.

Breaks and Study Permit Impact

Taking a Semester Off

Students considering a semester break should consult their international student advisor, as it may affect their study permit and work eligibility.

Scheduled Breaks

IRCC allows one scheduled break per calendar year, up to four months, provided the student was enrolled full-time before and after the break.

Following these regulations ensures international students can successfully complete their studies and explore future opportunities in Canada.

Get Expert Immigration Assistance with Dara Immigration Services (DIS)

Are you looking to Study in Canada?

At Dara Immigration Services (DIS), we understand that navigating the immigration process can be complex. Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, work permit, study permit, or permanent residency, we will guide you every step of the way. From helping you understand the application process to ensuring all necessary documents are in order, we provide the personalized support you need to succeed.

Don’t leave your future to chance—reach out to Dara Immigration Services (DIS) today, and let us help you take the next step toward your Canadian dream.

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