Study Permit
The study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada. Students must apply before they travel to Canada.
The study permit is not a visa. It doesn’t let you enter Canada. Students may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
At Studyvantage we tell you which (travel visa or eTA) you will need depending on your country of permanent residence/citizenship.
Study Permit
The study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada. Students must apply before they travel to Canada.
The study permit is not a visa. It doesn’t let you enter Canada. Students may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
At Studyvantage we tell you which (travel visa or eTA) you will need depending on your country of permanent residence/citizenship.
Travel Visa
A travel visa is a conditional authorization to enter Canada that will be stamped on your passport (or travel documentation) after you have an approved study permit. The stamping process is done by the Canadian embassy or consulate that processes your study application.
Travel Visa
A travel visa is a conditional authorization to enter Canada that will be stamped on your passport (or travel documentation) after you have an approved study permit. The stamping process is done by the Canadian embassy or consulate that processes your study application.
Electronic Travel Authorization
Not everyone requires a Travel Visa to enter the country and start their Canadian Education, and that depends on the student’s country of residence/citizenship. But those who don’t require a Visa usually need to process an Electronic Travel Authorization. This documentation is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires.
Electronic Travel Authorization
Not everyone requires a Travel Visa to enter Canada and start their education. It depends on the student’s country of residence/citizenship. Those who don’t require a Visa need to process an Electronic Travel Authorization. This documentation is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires.
Just in specific cases, a student might require neither a Travel Visa nor an eTA. If you want to know what your specific stance is on this matter, you can check the Canadian Government’s tool to find out if you need a Travel Visa or an eTA.
What will a border officer check upon your arrival?
- Your valid passport or travel documentation.
- Your Travel Visa or your Electronic Travel Authorization.
- The Letter of Introduction sent to you by the Visa Office once your application is approved (it contains your study permit reference number)
- The Letter of acceptance from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Proof that you can economically support yourself while you stay in Canada.
- Other documentation that the Canadian Consulate or Embassy might specify to bring (such as reference letters).
Study Permit Extension or Renewal
If you’re already in Canada with a Study Permit that is close to expiring, you can extend it by being accepted in a Designated Learning Institution.
If your permit already expired (less than 90 days ago) and you’re continuing your studies, you can pay to restore your status.
Only if you’re from a country that doesn’t require a Study Permit, you could change your status to a visitor permit until you can enroll in another DLI.