FAQ

Do I need a permit to study in Canada?
Yes, with a few exceptions, students planning on studying in Canada need a study permit.

When should I apply for a study permit?
Applicants should apply for the study permit before their arrival to Canada.

Will I receive a refund if my study permit application is turned down?
No, refused applications do not receive a refund. This is why it is important to consult an immigration lawyer to ensure the best results.

What is the COVID-19 readiness plan?
This plan is in effect to ensure the health and safety of everyone. A 14-day quarantine plan is necessary regardless of being fully vaccinated. The final decision regarding the 14-day quarantine will be made upon arriving in Canada. Attempting to travel to Canada for a DLI not on the readiness plan may result in being denied boarding the flight or being turned away when applicable.

What are DLIs?
Designated Learning Institutes are schools approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. All primary and secondary schools are DLIs.

Does studying at all DLIs lead to a post-graduation work permit?
No, not all DLIs ensure a PGWP issuance. For a list of accepted DLIs, visit the following link

How long does the process take?
The processing time may slightly vary for every applicant. Visit the following link for an accurate estimate

How much does the study permit process cost?
$150 for the Study permit
$85 biometric processing fee

As an international student, can I work while studying?
Depending on the study permit’s conditions, students may be able to work on- or off-campus without a work permit.

Can I work full time during my studies?
Students with a Social Insurance Number (SIN) may work off-campus up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full time during scheduled breaks.

Can I work after finishing my program?
No, however you can apply for a post-graduation work permit.

What is the post-graduation work permit?
The post-Graduation Work Permit allows students who have completed their post-secondary studies to seek work for a specific period of time.

For how long can I get a post-graduation work permit?
The post-graduation work permit may be valid from 8 months to 3 years depending on the length of the study program.

What is an open work permit?
he post-graduation work permit is an open work permit, meaning individuals can work anywhere in any field in Canada.

I’m currently studying at a DLI, when can I apply for a post-graduation work permit?
Graduates from inside Canada can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit up to 180 days after getting their degree/diploma, transcript, or official letter from their school.

Can I still apply for a post-graduation work permit after the study permit is expired?
If the study permit expires before applying, applicants have up to 90 days to apply for the PGWP AND restore the student status. If applicants do not apply after the 90 days, they must leave Canada.

What is the processing fee for the post-graduation work permit?
$255 ($155 PGWP, $100 Open Work Permit Holder)
However, if the study permit is expired, an additional $350 restoration fee is also in order.

What is the Student Direct Stream?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is an expedited processing program for the study permit. To be eligible for SDS processing, the applicant must be a legal resident, living in: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam.

What is a TRV?
A Temporary Resident Visa is a visitor visa placed in the passport to show that the individual has met the requirements for admission to Canada.

What is an eTA? What is an eTA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization is for foreign individuals with a visa exemption. The eTA is linked electronically to the passport and is valid for 5 years.

Do I need a TRV or an eTA to study in Canada?
Depending on your country of origin, you may need one or the other in addition to a study permit.

How can I know if I can apply for an eTA?
The list of countries with visa-exempt travellers can be found in the following link

Can I travel in/out of Canada with a TRV?
Depends on the TRV. Having a single-entry visa means you will need to get a new single-entry visa to come back. However, you can travel in/out of Canada with a multiple-entry temporary resident visa.

As an international student, can I apply to become a permanent resident?
There are several pathways for applicants including the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program, and the Provincial Nominee Program.

What is the Canadian Experience Class?
The CEC is an immigration program for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?
The FSW program is for skilled workers, who unlike the CEC, have foreign work experience and are planning on becoming permanent residents.

What is the Provincial Nominee Program?
The PNP is a set of programs specific to each province. These programs select applicants based on the specific needs of the respected province. The PNP is different in every province as the demands vary.