Canada study permit & IRCC guide

Do you need a study permit?

Almost all international students undertaking a programme longer than six months need a study permit. You must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — a school approved to host international students — before you can apply. Depending on your nationality you may also need a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorisation (eTA), which is normally issued together with your permit.

The process, step by step

1. Receive and accept a letter of acceptance from a DLI, and pay any required tuition deposit.
2. Gather your documents and arrange your proof of funds (many students use a GIC).
3. Create an account and apply online through the IRCC portal; pay the study-permit and biometrics fees.
4. Give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a visa application centre, and complete a medical exam if required.
5. Wait for a decision. If approved, you receive a port-of-entry letter of introduction (and a TRV/eTA if needed).
6. Travel to Canada; a border officer issues your actual study permit when you arrive.

Documents you’ll typically need

• A valid passport (ideally valid for the length of your studies).
• Your letter of acceptance from a DLI.
• Proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs (see below).
• Passport-style photos to IRCC specification.
• A statement of purpose explaining your study plan.
• Academic transcripts and certificates, and English/French test results if requested.
• A provincial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) where required, and a medical exam or police certificate if requested.

Proof of funds and the GIC

You must show you can pay your first year’s tuition plus living expenses. Many students do this with a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian bank: you deposit a set amount before you arrive, and the bank releases it to you in instalments to cover living costs during your first year. Bank statements, education loans or sponsorship letters can also be used — the key is that funds are genuine, sufficient and clearly documented.

Faster processing streams

Depending on your country and the rules in force, you may be able to apply through an expedited stream by submitting strong evidence upfront (such as a GIC, upfront tuition and required test scores). Eligibility and program names change periodically, so always confirm what currently applies to you on the official IRCC website.

Working during and after your studies

Eligible full-time students can usually work on campus, and off campus up to a capped number of hours per week during terms (with more flexibility during breaks). After graduating from an eligible programme, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which lets you gain Canadian work experience — often a stepping stone toward permanent residence.

Costs & timelines

Budget for the study-permit fee, the biometrics fee, and any medical exam or courier costs — typically a few hundred Canadian dollars in total. Processing times vary widely by country and season, so apply as soon as you have your letter of acceptance. Do not book non-refundable travel until your permit is approved.

This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Rules change frequently — always follow the latest official guidance from IRCC (canada.ca) and your university’s international student office.