Canada has been one of the friendly countries that for international students, who can obtain extra points via Express Entry for Canadian study experience, and a host of other streams operated by IRCC, the provinces, and territories either do the same, or exist only for international graduates. This is due to Canadian government research showing that international graduates tend to have strong labour market outcomes after obtaining permanent residence.
It is important to apply for a study permit immediately upon receiving the letter of acceptance. Study permit processing times vary for applicants from different countries. You may see delays during busy times, especially during the summer months.
In order to be eligible to submit an application for a Canadian study permit, a prospective student must:
- Obtain a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Prove that he or she has sufficient financial support to cover the first year of tuition, as well as living expenses and return transportation to his or her home country
- Obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Quebec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if he or she wishes to study in the Province of Quebec
- Have clean record. Applicants with a criminal background, or who pose a risk to Canadian security, may be refused. IRCC may request an applicant to supply a police clearance certificate.
- Be in good health. IRCC may request an applicant to complete a medical examination.
- Satisfy the immigration officer that he or she will leave Canada at the end of the stay authorized by the study permit
The applicant may also be required to submit the following supporting documents:
- Passport for the applicant and every family member included on the application;
- Two passport photos for the applicant and each family member included on the application, with the full name and date of birth written on the back;
- Photocopy of marriage certificate, if applicable;
- Any further documents required by specific visa offices.
IRCC also offers the Student Direct Stream (SDS), an expedited study permit pathway to residents of 14 countries, the largest of which are India, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, Morocco, Senegal, Brazil, Columbia, and Peru.