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by Kathy Watkins

Fast-Track Your Canadian Study Permit with Student Direct Stream

Study Permit for International Students

A study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is essential for international students aiming to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, such as a university or college. To apply for this permit, you need a letter of acceptance from a DLI and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). Our expert team at Immigration to Canada is here to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you successfully obtain your Canadian study permit.

Proven Process for Obtaining a Study Permit

Securing a Canadian study permit involves several key steps. Initially, you’ll need to receive an acceptance letter from a recognized DLI. Following that, acquiring a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is crucial before you can submit your complete application to IRCC.

Streamlined Visa Application

At Immigration to Canada, we simplify the application process, making it easier for you to navigate the complexities of IRCC requirements. Our services are tailored to help international students expedite their study permit approval through the Student Direct Stream.

Supporting Your Educational Journey

Our company is dedicated to supporting aspiring students by offering detailed guidance on all necessary documentation and requirements for a Canadian study permit. Trust our professionals to help you achieve your educational goals in Canada seamlessly.

Benefits of a Canadian Education

Comprehensive Guide to Canadian Study Permits

Applicants seeking a Canadian study permit can include family members in their application, allowing them to accompany the primary applicant to Canada. An accompanying spouse might qualify for an open work permit, permitting employment with any Canadian employer, while minor children can enroll in Canadian elementary and secondary schools.

What You Need to Know About Canadian Study Permits

Most international students require a study permit to study in Canada. However, if your program lasts six months or less, you won’t need one. Certain minors and other specific groups may also be exempt from requiring a study permit.

Key Information and Resources

For personalized guidance through each step of your Canadian immigration journey, reach out to the experienced team at Immigration to Canada.

Find Out More

To explore more about studying in Canada, work opportunities for spouses, minor children’s education, and exemptions from study permits, get in touch with us today. Whether you need assistance with your initial application or information on what to do after you graduate, we are here to help.

How to Get a Canadian Study Permit

Applying for a study permit should be done as soon as you receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Study permit processing times can differ and may experience delays, especially during the summer months.

To check estimated processing times for your country, click here. To be eligible for a Canadian study permit application, prospective students must:

Supporting documents for the application may include:

Benefits of a Canadian Education

Renewing and Updating Your Study Permit

Once you have a study permit, you might need to renew or modify it during your academic journey in Canada. To get detailed information on renewing, extending, or changing your study permit conditions, visit our dedicated page.

For students enrolled in post-secondary institutions who want to switch schools, change programs, or advance to a different level of study, there’s no need to apply for a new study permit. However, you must inform IRCC when changing institutions. For instance, you could transition from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s program, switch your major from Geography to Philosophy, or transfer from a college to a university without needing a new study permit. There is no need to alter the conditions of your study permit as long as it remains valid.

On the other hand, if you are an international student transitioning from elementary to high school, or from high school to a post-secondary institution, you must apply to change the conditions of your study permit.

Post-Graduation Pathways for International Students

Upon graduating, study permits expire 90 days after the completion date, irrespective of what’s printed on the permit. International graduates must update their status with IRCC within this 90-day window to avoid losing their legal status in Canada.

Many graduates qualify for a Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work for any employer across Canada for up to three years. Work experience gained under the PGWP can be beneficial for applications for Canadian permanent residency, particularly via the Canadian Experience Class and certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. Explore various Canadian immigration options available to you post-study.

If an international graduate does not apply for a PGWP, they have other options to maintain their legal status in Canada:

FAQ
Do I need a study permit?

If you want to study in Canada, you usually need a study permit. However, there are exceptions. If your program is less than six months long, you don’t need a study permit. If you are a family member or staff of a foreign diplomat, you also don’t need a study permit. Family members include spouses, common law partners, and dependent children. Additionally, members of the foreign armed forces under the Visiting Forces Act do not need a study permit.

Can I apply for a study permit if I am already in Canada?

Yes, you can. Even if you are already in Canada, you might need to apply for a study permit as if you were applying from outside of Canada.

How long does it take to process my study permit application?

Processing times can vary depending on the visa office. It is usually faster for those who qualify under the Student Direct Stream. To find out the processing time for your local or regional visa office, you can check the official website.

What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?

A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by the province or territory to host international students. To find out if a school is a DLI, you can look it up on the official list.

Can I legally work in Canada with a study permit?

Yes, you can work in Canada if your study permit allows it. You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during holidays without needing a separate work permit, as long as you are a full-time student. Part-time students in their last semester can also work. Some international students can work more than 20 hours per week until April 30, 2024, if they applied for their study permit on or before December 7, 2023.

When does a study permit expire?

A study permit expires 90 days after your program ends. If you are taking prerequisite courses, your permit will expire one year after those courses end. If you don't finish your program before your permit expires, you'll need to extend your stay. If you finish early, the permit will expire 90 days after your program ends, no matter the date on the permit.

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