Foreign nationals wishing to pursue their studies in Canada must obtain this essential document. From preparing the application to eligibility requirements, including processing times and obligations once there, expat.com explains in detail the formalities to complete to actualize your study project in Canada.
A study permit allows you to stay in Canada to pursue a general, theoretical, or vocational training program. This official document is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to enable foreign students to enroll in a post-secondary program at a designated learning institution (DLI). Therefore, you will need it if you are an international student intending to enroll in a university, college, or any other educational institution approved by a provincial or territorial government to host foreign students.
You must first be accepted into a study program before applying for a permit. Your educational institution must be listed onآ .
However, you will not need a study permit if the duration of your study program or your university exchange in Canada is less than six months. Nonetheless, you will still need a (electronic travel authorization or visitor visa) to come to Canada. Check this page for more information on the .
There are two other exceptions to the requirement for a study permit, but they areآ rare:
- If you are part of a diplomatic or military mission.
- If you are a citizen of a country benefiting from a special agreement with Canada exempting you from this obligation.
New Regulations for International Students in Canada
As of January 2025, a (PAL/TAL) is required to confirm the place allocated to the student. The validity of a PAL or TAL depends on the study permit cap year and the document issuance dates. Unless otherwise specified with an expiration date, these letters remain valid according to the following criteria:
- For the 2024 study permit cap year: If your PAL or TAL was issued between January 22, 2024, and January 21, 2025, it is valid until January 21, 2025.
- For the 2025 study permit cap year: If your PAL or TAL was issued between January 22, 2025, and December 31, 2025, it remains valid until December 31, 2025.
Your PAL or TAL must still be valid at the time of submitting your study permit application. You cannot use a PAL or TAL from a previous cap year for a new application. Ensure your document complies with the established deadlines to avoid any delays or refusals in your study permit application in Canada.
This letter is mandatory for all levels (including master's and doctoral), except for certain exemptions. The maintained exemptions include primary/secondary students, existing permit holders requesting an extension, and certain priority groups. This change applies to applications submitted after January 21, 2025. Processing times remain variable depending on the province and the volume of applications.
Note that there is a set at 437,000 study permits for 2025, representing a 10% reduction compared to 2024. The distribution by education level is as follows: 73,282 permits for graduate studies (master's/doctorate), 72,200 for primary-secondary, and 242,994 for other applicants.
For Quebec, students must still obtain a (CAQ) before the study permit.
Attention:
As of November 8, 2024, you need to obtain a new study permit by submitting an for your current permit to change post-secondary institutions.
Good to know:
Starting February 26, 2025, apprentices in may be able to study without a study permit to meet the requirements of their apprenticeship program. This public interest policy is in effect for a period of two years.
Applying for a Study Permit in Canada
As of March 25, 2025, you can no longer use the IRCC Portal to start a new study permit application.
You must use the to:
- start a new study permit application;
- apply for a study permit extension.
You must always scan your documents. You can only if you have a disability that prevents you from doing so online, or if you hold an identity document or travel document issued to non-residents, refugees, or stateless persons. In any case, the fee for a study permit application is CAD 150. You can check the processing times for your study permit application by clicking .
In addition to the Ҡform, you will need to attach to your application two passport-sized identity photos for you and for anyone accompanying you, as well as a photocopy of the personal information pages of your passport, the acceptance letter from the educational institution you are enrolled in, the Ҡform, and proof of financial resources.
Additional documents and supporting evidence may be required, depending on your country of origin and your situation. For more information, you can consult the Ҡsection of the Canadian government's website.
Important:
Foreign nationals already in Canada can no longer apply for a study permit at a port of entry. From now on, all applications must be submitted online, whether for:
- a first study permit;
- the renewal of a study permit.
If you are outside Canada, you may still be eligible to apply upon arrival at the port of entry.
Moreover, if you are in Canada and leave the country as a student with maintained status, you will temporarily lose your right to study upon your return. You can only resume your studies after your new application is approved.
If you plan to study in Quebec, you will need to provide a (CAQ) in addition to your study permit.
What Are the Conditions for Studying in Canada?
A study permit obliges you to prioritize your education for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.آ This means you must be enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) and follow a full-time program, unless a specific exception is specified by the authorities. Compliance with this condition is essential, as any breach could result in the cancellation of your permit and require you to leave the country.
Alongside your studies, you have the opportunity to work under certain conditions. The study permit allows you to work part-time, up to 24 hours a week during school sessions. During school holidays, students can work without hour limits. This opportunity allows international students to gain valuable professional experience and partially support themselves. However, it is important to note that this work authorization must not jeopardize the success of your studies. If the established rules are not followed, your permit could be revoked.
In addition to these academic and professional conditions, you must that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your study program, unless you obtain a post-graduate work permit or begin procedures to legally remain in the country. The immigration officer will assess your profile based on several criteria, including your family, professional, or economic ties in your home country. If your study plan suggests a clear intention to settle permanently in Canada without following official procedures, it could jeopardize the acceptance of your application.
Another fundamental criterion is financial capability. You must prove that you have sufficient resources to cover all your tuition fees for the first year, as well as your personal expenses and those of any family members accompanying you. These funds must be available and easily accessible, not derived from high-risk loans or uncertain financing. The exact amount required depends on the province where you study and the number of dependents.
When submitting your study permit application, but also upon arrival in Canada, authorities may ask you to present bank statements for the last three months to prove the source and availability of the funds. If you are benefiting from a scholarship or financial support from a relative, an official attestation will need to be provided. In some cases, additional documents such as proof of tuition payment or a financial sponsor's letter of commitment may be required.
Finally, to ensure the safety and well-being of Canadian residents, you may be required to undergo a medical examination if you come from a country where certain diseases are more prevalent, or if you plan to work in the health or education sector during your stay. Additionally, a police certificate may be required to prove that you pose no risk to public safety. These elements allow authorities to assess your eligibility and to ensure that your stay in Canada occurs under the best conditions.
By complying with these conditions, you maximize your chances of obtaining and maintaining your study permit throughout your academic stay in Canada.
Good to know:
In some cases, your spouse or partner may obtain a work permit to accompany you during your studies in Canada. As of January 21, 2025, only spouses of students enrolled in master's programs of at least 16 months, doctorates, or certain specific professional programs (health, engineering, etc.) can obtain an open work permit in Canada. If applicable, immigration services may request proof of cohabitation, especially if you are not married. Your children can obtain a study permit or a visitor visa. For more information, consult the of the Canadian government's website.
Attention:
Spouses of students in bachelor's or college diploma programs are no longer eligible. This could make settling in Canada more challenging for some couples, limiting their ability to generate income and integrate more easily before a potential permanent residence application. Spouses already benefiting from an open work permit before January 21, 2025, are not affected.
What Are Your Options After Studying in Canada?
After graduating in Canada, several options are available to you:
- Apply for a (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience.
- Apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or other immigration programs.
New Requirements for the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
As of November 1, 2024, new strict requirements apply to the PGWP:
- A minimum level of 7 according to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) in French or English is required.
- Individuals without a bachelor's, master's, or doctorate who apply for a study permit after November 1, 2024, will need to obtain a diploma from a program associated with certain long-term shortage professions.
Good to know:
Post-graduate permits are extended to 3 years for , even for programs less than 2 years.
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