Student Visa

The student visa or study permit is an official document that allows international students to complete their secondary and tertiary qualifications at any Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

A Canadian study permit, which serves as a student visa, allows you to complete your qualification at a Canadian institution of your choice for the duration of the qualification. You will be required to possess a study permit if your course is 6 months or longer, as well as remain enrolled at your designated institution.

It is important to note that study permits do not allow you to enter Canada and you will therefore need a visitor visa or ETA, which will be given to all successful study permit applicants. Your visa will expire 90 days after your study program has been completed but may be extended should you wish to continue your studies. It is considered that you should plan your Canadian study permit at least a year in advance. Various options that are available for the candidates are as follows:

• Study Permit of Canada – It is the primary way of studying in Canada with a study permit visa.

• Studying without a Study Permit – Under this program, the student does not require a study permit. It is mainly for the courses whose duration is up to 6 months.

• Getting work while Studying in Canada – The students who need funds get the option to work while pursuing their studies under this program.

• Getting Job After Completion of Studies – The Canadian graduates are eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit once their studies are completed. The post-graduation work permit allows such individuals to live and work for three years. The individuals gain the Canadian workforce’s knowledge and the relevant work experience to immigrate to Canada permanently if intended. The primary reason that international students opt to study in Canada is for the advantages it brings. Canadian employers are happy to provide job opportunities for the students who have completed their studies in Canada and subsequently get them to obtain the Permanent Resident status.

Did you know?

• Canada is ranked as the 3rd best country in the world for education.
• Canada is the world’s most educated country. Over half of its residents have college degrees.
• 56, OOO study permits were issued in 2025.
• If you study a course that’s 8-months or longer in Canada you could qualify for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).