What is a study permit in Canada?
A study permit is an official document that grants international students the legal authority to study at a specified learning institution in Canada. It permits them to stay in the country for the duration of their academic program. However, while it allows students to attend classes, it is not used as a travel document. Students must still obtain the appropriate visa or electronic travel authorization to enter Canada.
A study permit outlines important conditions. These may include the need to remain enrolled in classes, make academic progress and follow certain work rules. Most permits remain valid for the duration of the program plus a short period to allow students to prepare to leave or apply for a new status.
Provincial Attestation Letter Requirements
Most international students must now include a provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter with their study permit application. This document is issued by the province or territory where the student plans to study. It confirms that the institution is permitted to enrol international students under the provincial allocation system.
A PAL or TAL must be included in most applications. If a student applies without it, the application is usually returned along with the processing fees. Each province or territory controls how these letters are issued, so students should follow the instructions provided by their school and local authorities. Beginning the PAL or TAL process early can help prevent delays in the overall study permit timeline.
What is a student visa in Canada?
A student visa is often used informally to refer to the travel document that allows students to enter Canada. In official terms, this is either a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization. These documents do not give study rights on their own. They simply let the student travel to a port of entry with the intention of entering Canada.
Once students arrive, border officers verify their documents and issue their study permits. Without the travel document, students cannot board their flight or cross the border, even if they have been approved for a study permit.
Key Differences Between a Study Permit & Student Visa
The study permit grants permission to study and stay in Canada, while the visa permits entry. Students need both documents to start their program. If a student is from a country that requires a visa, they will receive a temporary resident visa once their study permit is approved. If they are from a visa-exempt country, they will get an electronic travel authorization instead.
The functions of these two documents are separate but connected. The travel document manages admission to Canada, while the study permit manages the student’s legal status inside the country.
Validity, Renewals & Extensions
Study permits last for the length of the academic program. Students who wish to continue their studies must apply for an extension before the permit expires. If the permit lapses, students may lose their status in Canada and will need to restore it.
Temporary resident visas and electronic travel authorizations also have specified validity periods. A visa typically matches the duration of the study permit, but this can differ. While students can stay in Canada as long as their study permit is valid, they only need a valid visa to re-enter Canada after travelling.
It is helpful for students to check the expiry dates of both documents and plan renewals early to avoid any disruption to their studies.
The Application Process
Students submit their study permit applications either online or at a visa application centre. They must include a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, proof of financial support, and identification documents. Additionally, many applicants need a medical exam from an IRCC panel physician, particularly if they plan to study in specific fields or stay longer than six months. In the Ottawa area, Immigration Physician Ottawa offers these medical exams for students.
Once a study permit is approved, IRCC issues the appropriate travel document. Students then present all documents to the officer at the port of entry to receive the physical study permit.
Work Rights While Studying
A study permit may allow students to work in Canada while studying. Most full-time students at designated learning institutions can work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. The study permit will specify any conditions related to employment. It is essential for students to understand these rules to remain compliant with their permit.
Students who complete their program may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit. This open work permit allows graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which can support future immigration plans.
Common Misconceptions
Many students believe that the visa is all they need for their studies. In reality, the visa only lets them travel to Canada. The study permit is the key document that confirms their right to study.
Another common misunderstanding is that an expired visa impacts a student’s status. Students can remain in Canada as long as their study permit remains valid. They only need to renew the visa if they plan to travel outside Canada and return.
Tips for a Successful Application
Students can increase their chances of approval by preparing complete and accurate applications. They should gather financial documents early, respond clearly to all questions, and ensure their acceptance letter is from a designated learning institution. Booking a medical exam with an approved panel physician can also help avoid processing delays.
Understanding the difference between a study permit and a student visa helps students plan their education pathway with fewer surprises. With the right documents and preparation, Canada offers a welcoming environment for international study.
