Applying for a Canadian Student Visa

International students who wish to study in Canada will need to apply for a Canada student visa. You may also need to obtain a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). This will grant you access into the country as a student. 

Applying for a Canadian Student Visa. How does it work?

• You must be enrolled at a designated learning institution
• You must show proof of funds to cover your tuition fees, living costs, return travel
• You must have no criminal record
• You must be in good health (you might need to complete a medical exam)
• You must prove that you will be leaving Canada after your studies

Documentation Needed

All applicants need to show a letter of acceptance from a Designated Study Institute in Canada. Most applicants will need to provide evidence of proof of sufficient funds. You could also be asked to submit biometric information such as a photograph and fingerprints, depending on where you are from. 

You cannot obtain a student permit if you have a criminal record. You may have to show a police certificate to prove that you haven’t got a criminal record. You will also need to provide documentation to show that you can fund your studies. You need to be able to demonstrate that you can support yourself while living in Canada, through bank statements, payment of accommodation or tuition fees, and scholarship or bursary notifications. You must show that you have access to $10,000 (CAD) for each year of your stay.

The application

In most cases, you will need to apply for a study permit before entering Canada. If you choose to complete your application online via the Citizenship and Immigration website, you will need to create an online account. Initially, all you will need is a debit/credit card and a device such as a camera or scanner to upload images of your documents as part of the application.

How much does a Canadian student permit cost?

A Canadian student permit is about $150 (CAD). Please note that this is a base price and will likely be a little more once you have actually uploaded and reviewed your application. If you are required to provide biometrics, there is an additional charge of $85.

The price of your permit will be confirmed to you before you pay and submit your application.

On approval of your application

If you are approved you will receive a letter of introduction (and sometimes a temporary residence visa). At border control in Canada when you land, you must show these along with your valid passport. You should also have with you all originals (or where not possible, copies) of the essential documents you submitted as part of your application. If you are asked to obtain a visitor visa, proof of this will be in your passport. Once the border agents are satisfied, they will give you your student permit and you can enter the country!

How long can I stay in Canada?

You are permitted to stay in Canada for the duration of your course plus an additional 90 days. This extra time allows you to plan your journey home or apply for a post-graduation work permit.  

Will I need to attend an interview?

In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview in person at your local Canadian visa office in your country. 

Can I work while I study?

You are allowed work on campus while studying at a recognised institution in Canada. In order to work, you will need to have a Social Insurance Number, which will depend on the terms of your study permit. If you have any queries about applying for a Canadian student visa, contact one of our expert immigration consultants. We can assist you in making your Canadian study dreams a reality.