Study Permit
Canada
Last updated: December 21, 2025
2–4 years
$150
4–17 weeks
High
About this Visa
A study permit lets you legally study at a Canadian school for 6+ months. You must prove you have money to pay and will return home after graduating. You can work 24 hours per week while studying. Work full-time during breaks. Spouse can work full-time (Master's/PhD only). After graduating, stay and work for up to 3 years. NOTE: The Student Direct Stream was discontinued November 8, 2024.
Key Benefits
- Work 24 hours per week during studies
- Work full-time during breaks
- Work full-time on campus
- Spouse can work full-time (Master's/PhD students only)
- Children can study in Canada
- Work up to 3 years after graduating
- Path to permanent resident status
- Path to Canadian citizenship
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Accepted to Canadian school (6+ months)
- Enough money for tuition and living costs
- Valid passport
- No criminal record
- Good health
- Prove you will return home after graduating
- Meet school entrance requirements
Financial Requirement
Minimum living costs: 1 person $22,895 CAD; 2 people $28,502 CAD; 3 people $35,040 CAD; 4 people $42,543 CAD; 5 people $48,252 CAD; add $6,170 CAD per extra person. Use bank statements, GIC, scholarship, loan, or sponsor letter as proof.
Documents
- Acceptance letter from Canadian schoolFrom recognized Canadian institution
- Proof of moneyBank statements, GIC, sponsor letter, or scholarship
- Proof tuition is paidReceipt showing first-year fees paid
- Valid passportWith copies of all pages
- 2 passport photosRecent passport-style photos
- Letter of explanationWhy this school, what you'll study, why you'll return home
- School transcriptsRecent report cards
- Medical examRequired if staying 6+ months or from certain countries
- Police certificateRequired if lived outside Canada 6+ months
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)Most provinces; not needed for graduate students starting January 2026
- Online application formIMM 1294 submitted online
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.