Who the Study Permit is for
#- Students accepted to a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Applicants with a clear study plan and adequate funding
- Students planning to study in Canada for more than 6 months
Eligibility nuances
#Officers assess whether your study plan is reasonable and whether you will leave Canada after your studies.
Funding must cover tuition and living expenses for the required period.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- Proof of funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel
- Clean police record and medical exam (if required)
- Proof you will leave Canada at the end of authorized stay
- Strong study plan aligned with your program
- Biometrics collection if required by nationality
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Letter of acceptance and proof of tuition payments (if applicable)
- Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsor letters for funding
- Study plan or statement of purpose
- Passport, photos, and travel history documents
- Medical exam and biometrics, if required
Comparing options? Review Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and International Experience Canada (IEC) before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Secure admission and gather funding evidence.
- Apply online and pay fees; submit biometrics if required.
- Complete medical exam if requested.
- Receive approval and travel with the port of entry letter.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and International Experience Canada (IEC) before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times depend on your country of residence and time of year.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Weak study plan or unclear program relevance
- Insufficient proof of funds or missing sponsor evidence
- Submitting incomplete school documents
- Not explaining gaps in study or employment history
Common misconceptions
#- A study permit automatically includes a long-term work visa.
- Admission to a DLI guarantees approval.
- Study permits are visas and allow entry by themselves.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Many study permits allow on-campus or off-campus work if you meet IRCC conditions.
Do I need a DLI acceptance letter?
Yes. A valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution is required for most study permit applications.
How do I prove funds for a study permit?
You must show sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses using acceptable proof such as bank statements or sponsor letters.
Do I need to show ties to my home country?
Yes. You must show you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay, typically with evidence of ties or plans.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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