Study Permit Canada: Complete Guide for International Students in 2026

A Canadian study permit is your gateway to world-class education at one of Canada's prestigious universities or colleges. Canada welcomes over 800,000 international students annually, offering exceptional educational opportunities, post-graduation work options, and pathways to permanent residence. Unlike tourist visas, a study permit allows you to study full-time at designated learning institutions (DLIs) while also working part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.

This comprehensive guide covers everything international students need to know about obtaining a Canadian study permit in 2026, including eligibility requirements, the application process, required documentation, provincial attestation letters, financial requirements, study permit conditions, work opportunities for students, pathways to permanent residence, and strategic planning to maximize your Canadian education experience.

Ready to study in Canada? Get a free assessment to determine your study permit eligibility and learn about designated learning institutions that match your goals.

What is a Canadian Study Permit?

A study permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. The study permit itself is not a visa—most students also need either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, depending on their nationality.

Your study permit specifies the designated learning institution you're authorized to attend, the level of study you're pursuing, and the validity period (typically the duration of your program plus an additional 90 days). With a valid study permit, you can study full-time at your designated institution, work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during regular academic sessions, work full-time during scheduled breaks, and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit after completing your studies.

Who Needs a Study Permit?

You need a study permit if you plan to study in Canada for more than 6 months. You do not need a study permit if:

Your program or course lasts 6 months or less
You are a family member or staff member of a foreign representative to Canada
You are a member of a foreign armed force

Even if your program is shorter than 6 months, you may still want to apply for a study permit if you might extend your studies or if you want the option to work part-time during your program.

Study Permit Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Canadian study permit, you must meet several important criteria demonstrating your genuine intention to study and your ability to support yourself financially.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

Letter of Acceptance: You must have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada
Proof of Identity: Valid passport or travel document
Financial Proof: Demonstrate you have enough money to pay tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and family members, and return transportation
No Criminal Record: Provide a police certificate if required
Good Health: Complete a medical examination if required
Intent to Leave: Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires
Provincial Attestation Letter: For most programs starting in 2024 or later, you need a provincial attestation letter (PAL)

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)

Your letter of acceptance must be from a designated learning institution. DLIs are schools approved by provincial or territorial governments to host international students. Not all Canadian schools are DLIs—verify your institution's DLI status before applying. You can search the official DLI list on the IRCC website.

Your letter of acceptance should include:

Institution name and DLI number
Your full name and date of birth
Program of study and duration
Program start and end dates
Tuition and fee amounts
Confirmation that you meet admission requirements
Deadline to confirm enrollment

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) Requirement

Starting in 2024, most international students applying for study permits need a provincial attestation letter (PAL) in addition to their letter of acceptance. This requirement was introduced to help provinces manage the number of international students and ensure adequate housing and support services.

Who Needs a PAL?

You need a provincial attestation letter if you are applying for:

A new study permit for programs starting in 2024 or later
Study at the post-secondary level (college, university, vocational schools)

You do not need a PAL if you are:

Extending your current study permit
Applying for a study permit for primary or secondary school (K-12)
Applying for a master's or doctoral degree program
Currently in Canada with a valid study permit and changing institutions
Applying for certain visiting or exchange student programs

How to Get a Provincial Attestation Letter

Each province and territory has its own process for issuing PALs. Generally, the process works as follows:

Receive your letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution
The institution applies to the provincial government on your behalf for a PAL
The province issues the PAL to the institution, who then provides it to you
You include the PAL with your study permit application

Each province has limited PAL allocations, so early application to institutions and prompt acceptance of offers is important. Contact your institution's international student office for specific PAL procedures.

Financial Requirements for Study Permits

Proving you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada is a critical component of your study permit application. Immigration officers need to see that you can afford tuition, living expenses, and return transportation without working illegally or requiring social assistance.

How Much Money Do You Need?

You must show you can cover:

Tuition Fees: First year of tuition (or full program tuition if less than one year)
Living Expenses: CAD $20,635 per year if studying outside Quebec, or CAD $11,000 per year if studying in Quebec (as of 2024)
Accompanying Family Members: Additional CAD $4,000 per year for first family member, CAD $3,000 for each additional family member
Return Transportation: Cost of return airfare for yourself and accompanying family members

Acceptable Proof of Funds

You can prove financial ability through:

Bank statements from the past 4-6 months showing sufficient balance
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
Student or educational loan approval letters
Bank drafts in convertible currency
Proof of paid tuition and accommodation fees
Letter from institution confirming scholarship or funding
Letter from sponsor (parent, relative, organization) with supporting financial documents

If relying on a sponsor, provide evidence of the sponsor's relationship to you, their income sources, and proof they have the stated funds available. Large recent deposits in bank accounts may raise concerns and should be explained with source documentation.

The Study Permit Application Process

The study permit application process requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here's the step-by-step process from acceptance to permit approval.

Step 1: Get Accepted to a Designated Learning Institution

Research Canadian institutions and programs that match your educational goals. Apply directly to institutions (most accept online applications). Once accepted, you'll receive a letter of acceptance—the foundation of your study permit application.

Step 2: Obtain Provincial Attestation Letter (if required)

Work with your institution to obtain your provincial attestation letter if required for your program. This step must be completed before submitting your study permit application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents:

Letter of Acceptance: Original letter from your DLI
Provincial Attestation Letter: If required for your program
Valid Passport: Valid for the duration of your intended stay
Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, GIC, scholarship letters, sponsor documents
Photographs: Recent photos meeting IRCC specifications
Statement of Purpose: Letter explaining your study plans and intentions
Academic Documents: Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, language test results
Police Certificate: If required based on your country
Medical Examination: If required based on your country or program

Step 4: Create Online Account and Apply

Most applicants apply online through the IRCC website. Create an account, answer eligibility questions, and the system will generate a personalized document checklist. Complete the application forms accurately:

IMM 1294 - Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada
IMM 5645 or IMM 5707 - Family Information Form
IMM 5476 - Use of a Representative (if applicable)
Custodianship Declaration (for minor children)

Step 5: Pay Fees and Submit

Current study permit fees:

Study permit application: CAD $150
Biometrics fee: CAD $85
Total: CAD $235

After submission, you may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a visa application center. You'll receive instructions if biometrics are required.

Step 6: Application Processing

Processing times vary by country but typically range from 4-16 weeks. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website. During processing, you may be requested to provide additional documents or attend an interview.

Step 7: Receive Decision

If approved, you'll receive:

Port of Entry Letter of Introduction: Bring this to the Canadian border
Visitor Visa or eTA: Your entry document (depending on nationality)
Instructions: Information about traveling to Canada

Your actual study permit is issued when you arrive in Canada. Present your documents to the border officer, who will issue your study permit after verifying your information.

Study Permit Conditions and Compliance

Your study permit comes with specific conditions you must follow to maintain valid status in Canada. Violating these conditions can result in permit cancellation and removal from Canada.

Standard Study Permit Conditions

Enrollment: You must be enrolled at and actively studying at your designated learning institution
Full-Time Study: You must study full-time unless authorized otherwise (exemptions exist for final semester, medical reasons)
Academic Progress: You must make reasonable progress toward completing your program
Program Completion: Your study permit expires 90 days after you complete your program (receive written confirmation of completion)
Work Authorization: You can only work according to your permit conditions (part-time during sessions, full-time during breaks)
Institution Changes: If changing institutions, notify IRCC through your online account

Working While Studying

Most study permit holders can work without a separate work permit:

On-Campus Work: Unlimited hours on your institution's campus
Off-Campus Work: Up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, full-time during scheduled breaks (summer, winter, spring breaks)
Co-op/Internship Work: If work is required for your program, apply for a co-op work permit

To work off-campus, you must have a valid study permit, be a full-time student at a designated learning institution, be enrolled in a post-secondary program or vocational training program, and have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

After Graduation: Post-Graduation Work Permit

One of Canada's most valuable benefits for international students is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This open work permit allows you to work anywhere in Canada for any employer after completing your studies, providing crucial Canadian work experience for permanent residence applications.

PGWP Eligibility

To qualify for a PGWP, you must:

Have completed a program of at least 8 months at an eligible DLI
Have maintained full-time student status (with some exceptions)
Have graduated from an eligible program
Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion

PGWP Duration

Programs 8 months to 2 years: PGWP valid for same length as program
Programs 2 years or longer: PGWP valid for 3 years

The PGWP is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so strategic educational planning is essential. Many students use PGWP work experience to qualify for Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Pathways from Study Permit to Permanent Residence

Canada actively encourages international students to transition to permanent residence. Your Canadian education and work experience provide significant advantages in immigration applications.

Express Entry - Canadian Experience Class

After obtaining one year of skilled Canadian work experience on your PGWP, you can apply through the Canadian Experience Class. Canadian education credentials provide additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points in Express Entry.

Provincial Nominee Programs

Many provinces have streams specifically for international graduates:

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program - International Student Stream, Masters Graduate Stream
BC Provincial Nominee Program - International Graduate and International Post-Graduate categories
Atlantic Immigration Program - International Graduate category
Other provinces with graduate-specific streams

Strategic program selection, institution choice, and province of study can significantly impact your permanent residence prospects. VisaVio can help you develop a comprehensive education-to-immigration strategy.

Family Members and Dependents

Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can accompany you to Canada while you study.

Spouse or Common-Law Partner

Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if:

You're studying full-time at a designated learning institution
You're enrolled in a post-secondary program or certain vocational programs
Your study permit is valid for at least 6 months

This spousal open work permit allows your partner to work for any employer in Canada, providing financial support and Canadian work experience.

Dependent Children

Your dependent children can accompany you to Canada and:

Attend primary or secondary school (K-12) without requiring their own study permit
Access quality Canadian education
Be included in your eventual permanent residence application

Common Study Permit Application Mistakes

1. Insufficient Financial Proof

Failing to demonstrate adequate financial resources is a leading refusal reason. Provide clear, well-documented proof of funds that covers tuition, living expenses, and return transportation. Recent large deposits without explanation raise concerns about borrowed funds.

2. Weak Statement of Purpose

A vague or generic statement of purpose doesn't convince officers of your genuine study intentions. Explain specifically why you chose this program, how it relates to your previous education and career goals, and why you must study in Canada rather than your home country.

3. Failing to Demonstrate Ties to Home Country

Officers must be satisfied you'll leave Canada after your studies. Demonstrate strong ties to your home country through family connections, property ownership, job prospects, or other compelling reasons to return.

4. Missing Provincial Attestation Letter

Applications requiring PALs will be refused if submitted without this document. Ensure you understand whether your program requires a PAL and obtain it before applying.

5. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Missing documents, unsigned forms, or documents not translated properly lead to delays or refusals. Follow the document checklist carefully and ensure all translations are certified.

6. Poor Academic Progression

If your chosen program doesn't logically follow from your previous education or career, officers may question your true intentions. Explain any educational gaps or changes in academic direction clearly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Study Permits

How long does it take to get a study permit?

Processing times vary significantly by country, ranging from 4 weeks to 16 weeks or more. Applicants from some countries may experience longer processing times. Check the IRCC website for current processing times specific to your country. Apply as early as possible—IRCC recommends applying well before your program start date to account for processing time and any additional document requests.

Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes, most study permit holders can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks without needing a separate work permit. You can work on-campus unlimited hours. To work off-campus, you must be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary program at a designated learning institution and have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

What is a Provincial Attestation Letter and do I need one?

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a document from a province or territory confirming they've approved your study permit application as part of their international student allocation. You need a PAL if applying for a new study permit for post-secondary programs (excluding master's and doctoral programs) starting in 2024 or later. You don't need a PAL if extending an existing study permit, studying at primary/secondary level, or enrolled in certain graduate programs. Your institution will help you obtain the PAL as part of the admission process.

How much money do I need to show for a study permit?

You must demonstrate you can cover tuition for your first year (or full program if less than one year), living expenses of CAD $20,635 per year ($11,000 in Quebec), and return transportation for yourself and any accompanying family members. If bringing family, add CAD $4,000 for the first family member and $3,000 for each additional member. Funds can be shown through bank statements, guaranteed investment certificates (GIC), scholarships, educational loans, or sponsor letters with supporting financial documents.

Can my spouse work if I study in Canada?

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if you're studying full-time in a post-secondary program at a designated learning institution and your study permit is valid for at least 6 months. The open work permit allows your spouse to work for any employer anywhere in Canada, providing valuable income and Canadian work experience. Apply for the spousal open work permit at the same time as your study permit or after arriving in Canada.

What happens if my study permit expires?

Your study permit expires either 90 days after you complete your program (receive written confirmation of completion) or on the expiry date on your permit, whichever comes first. If you want to continue studying, apply to extend your study permit at least 30 days before it expires. If your permit expires and you haven't applied for an extension, you must stop studying and may need to leave Canada. If you've completed your program, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit within 180 days of program completion.

Can I change programs or schools on a study permit?

Yes, you can change programs or schools, but you must notify IRCC of the change through your online account. If changing institutions, ensure your new school is a designated learning institution (DLI). You don't need a new study permit to change programs at the same institution or to switch to another DLI at the same level of study. If changing to a different level of study (e.g., from college to university), you may need to apply for a new study permit. Always report changes promptly to maintain compliance.

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit and how do I get one?

A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows you to work anywhere in Canada for any employer after completing your studies. To qualify, you must have completed a program of at least 8 months at an eligible DLI, studied full-time (with some exceptions), and apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion. PGWP validity ranges from 8 months to 3 years depending on your program length. The PGWP is a one-time opportunity and cannot be extended, so strategic program selection is important.

Can I apply for permanent residence while studying?

In most cases, you cannot apply for permanent residence while on a study permit unless you qualify for a specific program that allows it. The typical pathway is: study in Canada → obtain Post-Graduation Work Permit → gain Canadian work experience → apply for permanent residence through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program. Some provinces have streams for graduates that don't require work experience (e.g., Ontario Masters Graduate Stream), but most permanent residence pathways require Canadian work experience after graduation.

Should I hire an immigration consultant for my study permit?

While study permit applications can be completed independently, many students benefit from professional assistance, especially for complex situations involving previous refusals, gaps in education, financial documentation concerns, or strategic planning for permanent residence pathways. A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) like Azadeh Haidari-Garmash can help select the right program and institution, prepare a compelling statement of purpose, ensure all documentation meets requirements, and develop a comprehensive study-to-immigration strategy. Contact us for a consultation about your study plans.

Ready to Begin Your Canadian Education Journey?

A Canadian study permit opens doors to world-class education, valuable work experience, and pathways to permanent residence. With proper preparation, comprehensive documentation, and strategic planning, you can successfully obtain your study permit and build your future in Canada.

Get Expert Study Permit Assistance from VisaVio

VisaVio Immigration Consultants specializes in student visas and comprehensive education-to-immigration strategies. As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC R710392), Azadeh Haidari-Garmash has helped hundreds of international students successfully navigate the study permit process and transition to permanent residence.

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Additional Study Permit and Immigration Resources

Explore more immigration information for international students:

Post-Graduation Work Permit - Work in Canada after your studies
Express Entry - Pathway to permanent residence for graduates
Provincial Nominee Programs - Provincial pathways for international graduates
Spouse Work Permits - Work authorization for student spouses
Immigration Blog - Latest study permit updates and student success stories
Immigration News - Breaking updates on student immigration
Service Fees - Transparent pricing for our professional services

About the Author: This guide was prepared by VisaVio Immigration Consultants, led by Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC R710392) registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. All information is current as of January 2026 and based on official IRCC guidelines.

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