Study Permit

Study Permit: Your Path to Studying in Canada

What is a Study Permit?

A Study Permit is an official document issued by an immigration officer that allows international students to study at designated institutions in Canada. It becomes invalid 90 days after you complete your program or once you are no longer enrolled at the institution listed on your permit, except when you finish your studies.

Who Needs a Study Permit?

Most foreign nationals require a study permit unless they belong to:

• Accredited foreign representatives’ staff or family members, or
• Members of designated armed forces under the Visiting Forces Act.

Key Requirements & Documents

To apply, you must supply:

• Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• A Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming you have a study spot. In Quebec, the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) serves this role.
• Proof of identity (passport) and financial support, including:
  • First-year tuition and housing,
  • Bank statements (last 4 months),
  • Canadian bank account transfers or GICs,
  • Education loans, scholarship letters, or sponsorship letters.

Additional documents may include a Letter of Explanation, medical exam, or Custodianship Declaration (for minors).

Eligibility Criteria

You must demonstrate that you:

• Are accepted at a DLI,
• Can pay for tuition, living expenses (for self and accompanying family), and return transportation,
• Have no criminal record and good health (medical exam if required).

How to Apply

• Complete your application, including all required documents—otherwise, processing will be delayed.
• Once approved, you’ll get a visitor visa or eTA based on your passport, which allows entry to Canada.
• Visitations typically require biometrics, depending on nationality and location.

During Your Studies

While in Canada, you must:

• Stay enrolled full-time (or part-time under specific conditions),
• Actively pursue and make progress in your program (authorized leaves up to 150 days).

Extensions & Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• You can extend your study permit if you’re changing schools or continuing your studies.
• After completion, you may apply for a PGWP within 180 days, provided your permit was valid during that period. Programs must be at least 8 months, completed at a DLI, and lead to a diploma, certificate, or degree.
• Eligibility for PGWP may depend on your field of study (CIP code)—certain programs might not qualify unless they fall under specified criteria.

Upcoming Changes & Policy Context

• As of September 1, 2025, financial proof requirements will be tighter, with higher cost-of-living thresholds and stricter documentation, especially for Quebec-bound students.
• Canada continues to cap the number of study permits; in 2025, it’s limited to around 437,000 permits, to manage pressures on housing and services.

Quick Overview

Why Choose True Pearl Visa Services Inc.?

We make it easier by helping you:

• Select the right program and institution (DLI),
• Obtain accurate attestation letters,
• Prepare clear and complete documentation, especially for financial proof,
• Handle application submissions, biometrics, and tracking,
• Navigate extensions, PGWP eligibility, and timelines.