Study permit
After being accepted by an institution for a program of study in Canada, the student should apply for a study permit at the nearest Canadian diplomatic mission. For expedient processing, it is recommended that applications be filed at least three months prior to the commencement of classes. For nationals of some countries, visitor visas are also required; these are issued at the same time as the study permit. There is a processing fee for the study permit. There is no fee for the visa when it is issued with a study permit.
In order to apply for a study permit, you need the following documents:
- A valid passport
- An original letter of acceptance from a university, college or other institution
- Evidence of adequate funds to cover tuition and living costs for you and your dependents, including return transportation
- For students going to Québec institutions, a certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from Québec immigration authorities
- If applicable, a letter from your sponsor
- A letter of reference from a dependable person in your community will help.
In some cases, a medical examination by a doctor designated by the Canadian government may be needed. The immigration officer will provide information on this requirement. A personal interview with a visa officer may be required; any documentation which might be useful as a demonstration of strong ties to your country of origin may be of assistance at the interview.
Under no circumstances should a student come to Canada without a valid study permit (and visa if required). Citizens and permanent residents of the United States, St. Pierre and Miquelon and Greenland may, however, apply for the study permit at a Canadian port of entry. The same documentary and fee requirements apply as for all students.
Click the link for the Application to study in Canada package of forms.
There are certain exceptions for requiring a study permit in Canada. Click the link to read more about these exceptions.
If you wish to extend your time in Canada to study, you should apply for a study permit renewal at least one month in advance of the expiry date on your current study permit. You will need to fill out the Application to change conditions or extend your stay in Canada package of forms. Click the link for a list of help topics to assist you in filling out these forms.
For comprehensive information on getting a Canadian study permit, visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Work permit
On-campus
If you are a full-time student at a qualifying education institution, and have a valid study permit, a work permit is not required for you to work on campus at the institution where you study.
Off-campus
The Off-Campus Work Program allows full-time students enrolled in approved institutions to work off-campus. To ensure that your program qualifies for the Off-Campus Work Permit you should contact your education institution directly. With a work permit you will be able to work up to 20 hours during regular study time and up to full-time during regularly scheduled breaks. You may only start working after you have received your work permit, and if you cease to be enrolled in full-time studies you must return your work permit to the nearest Citizenship and Immigration Canada office. Your international student advisor can assist you with application for the Off-Campus Work Program.
Co-op or internship
If your academic program requires you to take part in a co-op placement or internship, you will require a work permit. You are still required to have a valid study permit. The co-op or internship must be part of your academic program (not more than 50%) which is verified by a letter from an official from your education institution.
After graduation
After you graduate from a qualifying Canadian education institution you may apply for a work permit through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). This will allow you to work in Canada to gain experience that will help you qualify for permanent Canadian residence (see Canadian Experience Class). The post-graduation work permit is directly related to the length of your program for up to three years, your program must be at least eight months in duration.
Spouse or common-law partner
If you are a full-time student at a qualifying education institution with a valid study permit, your spouse or common-law partner is able to apply for an open work permit. His or her work permit will remain valid as long as your study permit is in effect.
International students in Canada
For international students already in Canada, get the Application to apply for a work permit – student guide package of forms.
For more information on work permits, visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada Help Centre.
Travel and work in Canada
Canada has bilateral reciprocal youth mobility arrangements and agreements with a number of different countries around the world. Managed by International Experience Canada (IEC), the arrangements and agreements facilitate obtaining a work permit that would allow you to travel and work in Canada for up to one year. Work permits through IEC are available to people aged 18-35 (check age requirements in your country as they may vary).
For more information, and to check if your country has an arrangement or agreement with Canada, visit the International Experience Canada (IEC) website.