Study Permit in Canada

What is a Study Permit?

A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most international students must obtain a study permit before beginning their studies.

Key Requirements

- You must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) with your application.
- Applications submitted without a PAL/TAL will be returned.
- You must apply before travelling to Canada.

Application Process

- Apply online (recommended) or on paper in limited cases (e.g., disability).
- Ensure your application is complete to avoid delays or refusal.
- Pay the application fee of 150 CAD.

Additional fees may apply for biometrics or visa processing.

Processing Times

- Vary by country of residence.
- Check current processing times on the IRCC website.

Using a Representative

Immigration consultants, lawyers, or Quebec notaries must be authorized and licensed.

Required Documents for a Study Permit

Mandatory Documents

1. Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
    - Issued by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
    - Must be uploaded in the correct field
    - The institution must validate the LOA   

2.  Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)
    - Required for most applicants
    - For Quebec: submit a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

3. Proof of Identity
    - Valid passport or travel document
    - Two recent passport-sized photos with name and date of birth on the back

4. Proof of Financial Support
    - Show you can support yourself and any accompanying family members
    - Minimum financial requirements increased as of September 1, 2025

Recommended Document

- Letter of Explanation
- Explains your study plans and shows you understand your responsibilities as a student in Canada.

Conditional Documents

1. Medical Exam
Required if:
    - Staying in Canada for more than 6 months
    - Recently visited certain countries
    - Planning to work in health-related fields

2. Police Certificate
May be requested depending on your background

3. Custodianship Declaration
Required for minors under 17 not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian

4. Country-Specific Documents
Additional documents may be required based on your country of residence