Looking To Study in Canada?
In Canada, a study permit is a document that authorizes international students to study for a limited period of time in the country. The majority of international students require this document to study in the country. Depending upon your country of citizenship or residence, you may also require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada.
Eligibility
A foreign student who wishes to study in Canada must obtain a study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). A number of factors determine whether an applicant is eligible to be granted a study permit by the IRCC. You need to meet the following requirements to apply for a study permit in Canada:
- An acceptance letter must be obtained from a designated educational institution in Canada recognized by IRCC and the Canadian government.
- Get your criminal background check and police clearance certificate.
- To clear your medical exam.
- You must show that you will leave the country after your study permit expires or apply for a post graduate work visa if you qualify.
- You must demonstrate that you have enough money to pay for your first year tuition, living expenses, including return transportation. The amount depends on the number of family members. A single student needs to have in his or her bank account the tuition fee plus $10,000; a family needs to have $14,000 plus $3,000 each.
As soon as you receive your acceptance letter, gather all your supporting documentation and apply for a study permit. Depending on where you apply, the processing time for your study permit will vary. Both online and paper applications are accepted. Your country of residence will determine whether you will receive a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a Letter of Introduction. The immigration officer will issue your legal study permit if you present these documents at the port of entry into Canada.
Works as a student - Being an international student in Canada offers international students a number of opportunities to gain exposure to the Canadian workplace and gain relevant work experience. You can choose to work at various stages of your studies.
- On Campus - Working on campus is permitted for 20 hours per week without obtaining a work permit. However, you need to get your Social Insurance Number (SIN) before you start working.
- Part-Time Off-Campus Work: Full-time international students are permitted to work part-time (20 hours a week) outside the campus for any employer and full-time (37.5 hours) during their semester breaks.
- Internships / Co-ops: If you are enrolled in a program that includes an internship or co-op, you can apply for a co-op work permit. You may not work anywhere else that is not related to your course curriculum if you have this work permit.
- Dependent Work Permit: Your spouse may apply for a work permit in Canada if you are accompanied by them while studying