Study at world-class Canadian institutions. Get your study permit and unlock opportunities for education, work experience, and permanent residence.
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most international students need a study permit to study in Canada for programs longer than 6 months.
Access to top-ranked universities and colleges with globally recognized credentials
Work up to 20 hours/week during studies and full-time during breaks
Eligible for PGWP allowing you to work in Canada after graduation
Canadian education and work experience boost your immigration prospects
Different study permit options for different educational goals
Study at a Canadian university, college, or vocational institution
Study at a Canadian high school or secondary institution
Study English or French at a designated language institution
Participate in student exchange programs or short-term studies
What you need to qualify for a Canadian study permit
You must have an acceptance letter from a DLI to apply for a study permit. DLIs are schools approved by provincial or territorial governments to host international students. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs, but post-secondary institutions must be on the official DLI list. Check the IRCC website for the current DLI list.
Gain valuable Canadian work experience while studying
Work on campus without a work permit
Work off-campus up to 20 hours/week during studies
Work as part of your academic program
As of November 15, 2024, international students can work off-campus up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions. During scheduled breaks (winter, spring, summer), you can work full-time. Your study permit must explicitly state that you're authorized to work off-campus. Check your permit conditions carefully.
Step-by-step guide to applying for your study permit
Apply and receive a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada
Collect proof of acceptance, financial support, identity documents, and other required materials
Set up an IRCC account or apply through your institution's Student Direct Stream (if eligible)
Fill out IMM 1294 (study permit application) and other required forms accurately
Pay study permit fee ($150 CAD) and biometrics fee ($85 CAD) online
Upload all documents and submit your complete application through IRCC portal
Visit a visa application center to provide fingerprints and photo within 30 days
Complete medical examination with panel physician if requested by IRCC
IRCC reviews your application and may request additional documents or information
If approved, receive Port of Entry Letter of Introduction; actual permit issued at Canadian border
Current processing standards for study permit applications
20 days
For eligible countries with upfront medical and GIC
8-16 weeks
Varies by country of application
Note: Processing times vary by country and time of year. Apply as early as possible, ideally 3-4 months before your program start date. Check the IRCC website for current processing times for your country.
Expert guidance for successful study permit applications
Help choosing the right DLI and program for your goals and qualifications
Assistance gathering and organizing all required documents and evidence
Guidance on proof of funds, GIC setup, and scholarship applications
Professional review of forms and supporting documents before submission
Help crafting a compelling Statement of Purpose that strengthens your application
Guidance on SIN application, work permits, and transitioning to PGWP
Get a free assessment or book a consultation to start your study permit application
If your program is 6 months or less, you may not need a study permit. However, you'll need a visitor visa or eTA (depending on your country). If you plan to continue studying after 6 months, it's better to apply for a study permit from the start.
During academic sessions, you can work a maximum of 20 hours per week off-campus. However, during scheduled breaks (winter, spring, summer), you can work full-time. On-campus work has no hour restrictions. Co-op work permits allow work as part of your program.
A PGWP allows you to work in Canada after graduating from an eligible DLI program. The permit length depends on your program duration (8 months to 3 years). You must apply within 180 days of completing your program. PGWP is a one-time opportunity and provides valuable Canadian work experience for immigration.
Yes. Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if you're studying full-time at a post-secondary DLI. Your dependent children can study in Canada (primary/secondary school without a study permit, post-secondary requires a permit). They'll need visitor visas or study permits depending on their situation.
You need to show proof of: (1) Tuition fees for your first year, (2) Living expenses of $10,000/year ($11,000 in Quebec), (3) Additional $4,000 for your first accompanying family member and $3,000 for each additional member. You can show this through bank statements, GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate), scholarship letters, or a sponsor's affidavit.
The information provided on this page is for general guidance only. Study permit requirements, processing times, and work authorization rules change regularly. ReginaMax Immigration Services does not guarantee study permit approval or admission to any educational institution. Each case is unique and subject to Canadian immigration law. Final decisions are made solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).