Study Permits in Canada

Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students, offering high-quality education, cultural diversity, and pathways to work and immigration. However, to study in Canada for more than six months, most foreign nationals must obtain a study permit.

This article explains what a study permit is, who needs one, the eligibility requirements, how to apply, and what rights and obligations come with it. We’ll also touch on legal principles that guide how officers must decide applications, and what options exist if your permit is refused.

What is a Study Permit?

A study permit is not a visa but an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that authorizes a foreign national to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

Key points:

• Most students also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, issued along with the permit.
• The permit specifies conditions such as school, program, work eligibility, and duration of stay.
• It must generally be obtained before arriving in Canada, although limited in-Canada applications are possible (e.g., for minors, exchange students, or status changes).

Eligibility for a Study Permit

To qualify, applicants must show they:

1. Have a letter of acceptance from a Canadian DLI.
2. Can prove financial sufficiency, covering:
• Tuition fees,
• Living expenses for themselves and accompanying family, and
• Return transportation costs.
  (As of January 2024, IRCC increased the cost-of-living requirement to CAD 20,635 per year for a single applicant outside Quebec.)
3. Are law-abiding and admissible to Canada (medical, security, and criminal checks apply).
4. Intend to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
5. Meet program-specific or provincial requirements, if applicable.

Application Process

1. Gather Documents
• Letter of acceptance (LOA) from a DLI.
• Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC, scholarships, or sponsor support).
• Identity documents (passport, photos).
• Supporting documents (SOP, family ties, property ownership, prior academic transcripts).
2. Submit Online Application
• Applications are filed through the IRCC portal, with biometrics and fees.
3. Biometrics & Medical Exam
• Required for many applicants. A medical exam is mandatory for studies in health fields or for stays longer than 6 months in designated countries.
4. Wait for Processing
• Processing times vary by country and season. Delays may occur due to background checks.
5. Receive Decision
• If approved, the study permit is issued upon arrival in Canada. If refused, the letter explains reasons (e.g., insufficient funds, weak home-country ties, or doubts about study intent).

Rights and Conditions of Study Permit Holders

• Study: Only at the school/program specified on the permit.
• Work: Many students can work:
• On-campus: Limited hours, no separate work permit.
• Off-campus: Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions, full-time during scheduled breaks.
  (A temporary public policy allows some students to work more than 20 hours until April 30, 2024.)
• Co-op/Internships: Requires a separate co-op work permit if work is an essential part of the program.
• Maintain status: Must remain enrolled and actively pursue studies.

What if My Study Permit is Refused?

Options include:

• Reapplying: Address the refusal grounds (e.g., provide stronger financial proof, better explanation of study plans).
• Requesting reconsideration: Rare, but possible if there’s a clear officer error.
• Judicial review: Ask the Federal Court to review the refusal for fairness or reasonableness.