Who Can Apply for a Canadian Study Permit?

International students who have been accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada are eligible to apply for a Study Permit. Before submitting your application, you must first receive a formal Letter of Acceptance from your chosen institution. In addition, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Acceptance: You must have an official acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada.

• Proof of Financial Support: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover:

  • Tuition fees

  • Living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members

  • Return transportation for yourself and any accompanying family members

• Criminal Background Check: You must have no criminal record and may be required to provide a police certificate.

• Medical Clearance: You must be in good health and willing to undergo a medical exam, if required.

• Intent to Leave: You must convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada upon the expiry of your authorized stay.

Who Doesn’t Need a Study Permit?

In certain cases, you may be exempt from requiring a study permit:

• Short-Term Courses: If your course or program lasts six months or less, and you complete it within your authorized stay in Canada, you do not need a study permit.

• Family Members of Foreign Representatives: If you’re related to a representative accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), check with your embassy to confirm whether a permit is required.

• Members of Foreign Armed Forces: Personnel under the Visiting Forces Act do not need a permit to study in Canada. However, family members may need to apply separately.

• Registered Indians in Canada: Foreign nationals who have Registered Indian status in Canada do not require a study permit.

Extending or Changing Your Study Permit

• Extending Your Stay: If your current study permit is about to expire and you wish to continue studying, apply for an extension at least 30 days before the expiry date.

• Changing Institutions or Programs: If you change your DLI, program, or level of study, you must update the conditions of your study permit accordingly.

Restoring Student Status

If your study permit has expired, you may apply to restore your status within 90 days of losing it. You must have continued to meet the original conditions of your stay and provide a full explanation for the lapse. Please note, while your application is being reviewed, you may stay in Canada but you cannot continue studying until your status is restored.

Health Insurance for International Students

The Canadian government does not cover health care for international students. Since healthcare is a provincial responsibility, coverage varies by province. We recommend that you contact your educational institution for details on available health insurance options and packages.

Working While Studying

As an international student with a valid study permit, you may be eligible to work:

• On-campus or off-campus without a separate work permit

• While enrolled in a full-time academic, vocational, or professional training program

Conditions vary depending on your program and location. For more information, please refer to the official guidelines on working during studies.

Bringing Your Family to Canada

International students can bring their spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with them to Canada:

• Spouses/Common-law Partners: May be eligible for an Open Work Permit valid for the same duration as your study permit. This permit allows them to work for any employer across Canada.

• Dependent Children: May study at the appropriate education level without a separate study permit, depending on their age and province of residence.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Upon completing your studies from an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

• Valid for up to three years

• Open work permit (no job offer required)

• Allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience

Important: You must apply within 90 days of receiving written confirmation of your graduation (e.g., official transcript or letter) and ensure your study permit is still valid at the time of application.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

Canada offers a pathway to permanent residence for international students through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), part of the Express Entry system. After gaining qualifying work experience under a PGWP, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.