Study, work & visit

Canadian Study Permit

Study in Canada with a plan that protects your future work and immigration options from day one.

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Acceptance
Letter of acceptance from a DLI
Attestation letter
PAL/TAL for most post-secondary students
Proof of funds
Tuition · living costs · return travel
After graduation
PGWP for eligible programs

Overview

A study permit allows international students to attend a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, from primary and secondary school to college, university and graduate studies. Canada now limits the number of new study permits, and most post-secondary applicants also need a provincial attestation letter, so early planning matters more than ever. We help students and families choose the right schools and programs — K-12, college or university — and prepare permit applications that keep future work and immigration options open.

Who it’s for

  • Students planning a diploma, degree or graduate program at a Canadian college or university
  • Families planning K-12 education for their children, with or without an accompanying parent
  • Graduates who want Canadian work experience as a step toward permanent residence

Key requirements

  • A letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • A provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) for most post-secondary programs — K-12 students and many graduate students are exempt
  • Proof you can pay first-year tuition, living expenses and return travel for yourself and any family members who come with you
  • Satisfy the officer that you are a genuine student — a clear, credible study plan is key
  • A Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you will study in Québec
  • A custodian in Canada for minor students travelling without a parent or legal guardian
  • Biometrics, plus a medical exam and police certificates where required

How it works

  1. 01

    School & program planning

    We help you choose schools and programs — K-12, college or university — that fit your goals, budget and future work or immigration plans.

  2. 02

    Acceptance & attestation

    We guide your school applications and confirm whether you need a PAL/TAL, or a CAQ for Québec, before you apply for your permit.

  3. 03

    Build a strong application

    We organize proof of funds, a clear study plan and supporting documents, and prepare custodianship documents for minor students.

  4. 04

    Submit & complete biometrics

    We file your application online, guide you through biometrics and any medical exam, and respond to requests from IRCC.

  5. 05

    Arrive & stay compliant

    Once approved, your study permit is issued when you arrive at the port of entry. We then advise on work rules, extensions and PGWP timing.

Advantages

  • A wide choice of internationally recognized schools, colleges and universities across Canada
  • Eligible students can work part-time off campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks
  • Spouses of students in certain graduate and professional programs may qualify for an open work permit
  • Canadian credentials and work experience can lead to permanent residence through CEC and provincial programs

Good to know

  • Canada limits new study permits each year and provinces issue a limited number of attestation letters — start planning early.
  • PGWP eligibility depends on your school, program, field of study and language results, under rules that changed significantly in 2024.
  • Changing schools or programs, or failing to stay enrolled, can affect your status and future PGWP eligibility — talk to us before you switch.

FAQ

Can I work while studying in Canada?

In most cases, yes. Full-time students in eligible programs can work part-time off campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, as set out in their study permit conditions.

Do my children need a study permit if I work or study in Canada?

Usually not for kindergarten to Grade 12 when a parent is authorized to work or study in Canada. Children of visitors, and minors coming to study on their own, generally need one. We confirm what applies to your family.

Does a study permit lead to permanent residence?

It can be a strong first step. Canadian education and skilled work experience help you qualify for programs such as the Canadian Experience Class and provincial nominee streams, but a study permit itself does not guarantee permanent residence.

Last reviewed: October 2026. This page provides general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change often — we confirm the latest requirements for your situation during your consultation.