Last updated: 2026-07-07
Canada Student Visa (Study Permit)
Canada · North America
Learn about Canada Study Permit eligibility requirements, required documents, proof of funds, application steps, fees, and other official requirements for international students planning to study in Canada.
purpose
Study at a designated learning institution in Canada
duration
Duration of your study program plus 90 days
processing Time
Varies by country (see IRCC processing times)
cost
CAD $150
work Allowed
Up to 24 hours/week during academic sessions
Overview
The Canada Study Permit allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It serves as your student visa for programs longer than 6 months. This guide covers eligibility requirements, required documents, application steps, and common mistakes.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Canada Study Permit, you must: (1) have an acceptance letter from a DLI, (2) prove sufficient funds (minimum $22,895 CAD + first-year tuition for 2025), (3) have a valid passport, (4) satisfy the immigration officer you will leave Canada after your studies, (5) may need a medical exam and/or police clearance certificate depending on your country of origin.
Requirements
| Requirement | Details | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Requirement: Education | Details: Acceptance at a Designated Learning Institution | Description: - Verified 2026-01-15Canada Government Immigration Website |
| Requirement: Financial Proof | Details: Proof of Sufficient Financial Support | Description: - Verified 2025-06-15 |
Required Documents
| Document | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Document: Letter of Acceptance | Description: Your school will give you a letter of acceptance. Upload this to your online application. | Required: Yes |
| Document: Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter | Description: Get a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) from your school. In most cases, you need to accept your offer and pay your tuition fees, either in part or in full, to get your PAL/TAL. If you’re studying in Quebec, you need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec [CAQ]). | Required: Optional |
| Document: Proof of Identity | Description: To show proof of identity, you (and each family member who comes with you) must have: 1. a copy of a valid passport or travel document -Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online. -If you’re approved, you must send us your original passport. 2. 2 recent passport size photos -The name and date of birth of the person must be written on the back of each photo. For citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States (U.S.): 1. If you’re a citizen of the U.S., you have options for what you can show as proof of identity. 2. If you’re a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., you must travel with a valid green card (or equivalent official proof of status in the U.S.) and a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent document). |
Application Steps
Obtain an Acceptance Letter
Apply and receive an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The letter must be from a DLI listed on the official IRCC website.
Gather Required Documents
Prepare your valid passport, acceptance letter, proof of financial support, passport-sized photographs, Statement of Purpose, and any additional documents required by your local visa office.
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the online application form (IMM 1294) through the IRCC website or submit a paper application at your local visa application centre (VAC).
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the CAD $150 study permit processing fee and CAD $85 biometrics fee online. Keep the payment receipt as proof.
Submit Biometrics
Visit your local visa application centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
Fees
Study permit processing fee: $150 CAD. Biometrics fee: $85 CAD. Medical exam costs vary by country ($150-500 CAD estimated). Police clearance costs vary. Tuition varies by institution and program (approximately $15,000-$50,000 CAD per year).
Processing
Processing times vary by country of application. Check the official IRCC processing time tool for current estimates. Submit a complete application to avoid delays.
Common Mistakes
Applying without a valid acceptance letter from a DLI
Ensure your institution is on the official DLI list. Even if accepted, certain DLIs may have restrictions on off-campus work.
Insufficient proof of financial support
Provide clear bank statements, tuition payment receipts, or a letter from a sponsor showing you can cover tuition, living expenses (minimum CAD $22,895/year for single applicant), and return transportation.
Incomplete application or missing documents
Double-check the document checklist for your specific visa office. Missing documents are the most common reason for processing delays and rejections.
Misrepresenting information in your application
Immigration fraud is taken very seriously in Canada. Any misrepresentation can result in a 5-year ban from entering Canada.
Waiting until the last minute to apply
Apply at least 3–4 months before your program start date. Processing times can vary significantly depending on your home country.
Official Sources
Informational Purpose Only
This website provides general information about immigration programs and procedures. It does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws, policies, fees, and processing times change frequently. Always verify all information with official government sources before making decisions or taking action based on the content on this site.