Everything to Know about Canadian Study Permits
A Canadian study permit is a legal document that allows foreign nationals to study at a designated educational institution in Canada. Except for a few exceptions, all foreign students must possess a Canadian study permit to legally study in Canada, be it primary, secondary, college, university, or any other program.
Designated Learning Institutions
To be issued a study permit, foreign students must provide proof that they will be studying at a Designated Learning Institution (“DLI”) recognized by the Canadian government.
DLIs are schools that have been given the green light by the Canadian government to admit foreign students into their programs. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs and are able to enroll students from other countries. However, not all post-secondary education institutions are DLIs, so it is important to check the Canadian government’s list of DLIs before applying for a study permit.
Expiration of your Study Permit
The length of the study program at the time of application determines the study permit’s validity. Changes in the program or a shift to a program of longer duration would necessitate an extension of the study permit. The study permit expires 90 days after the student finishes their studies, irrespective of the permit’s date. So, before this deadline, the foreign national must either leave Canada or apply for an extension. Many graduates choose to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. If approved, this permit allows them to stay and work in Canada.
Study Permit Holder’s Responsibilities in Canada
Upon arrival in Canada, foreign students holding a study permit must follow certain requirements. These include:
- Maintaining enrollment and regular attendance at a DLI.
- Making continuous progress in their program of study.
- Adhering to the conditions listed on their study permit.
- Ending their studies if they fail to meet the requirements.
- Exiting Canada before the permit’s expiration.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must have a valid acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada and meet certain other requirements. These include:
- Holding a valid passport or other travel documents.
- Demonstrating enough funds to cover student fees and living expenses for the first year.
- Providing proof of liquid funds under the applicant, spouse, family member, or close friend’s name.
- Depending on the individual case, a medical examination and police clearance certificates may be required.
Studying in Canada Without a Study Permit
In some scenarios, a foreign national doesn’t need a study permit to study in Canada. This applies to:
- Study programs that last 6 months or less. In such cases, individuals can complete the course as long as they have a legal entry status into Canada, often through a visitor or tourist visa. But, if the course is part of a longer program or the completion will take more than 6 months, they need to apply for a stay extension.
- Minor children in Canada as refugees or those with parents who are refugees or refugee claimants, who don’t need a study permit for schooling.
- If a parent has the legal authorization to work or study in Canada, their minor children can attend preschool, primary, or secondary school without a study permit.
Changing Field of Study in Canada
If a student decides to change their field of study or educational institution in Canada, they might not need a new study permit. This applies if the current permit doesn’t specify the field of study or institution. However, if the permit does include this information, it requires updating before starting a new course or school. Also, moving from one educational level to another, like from primary to high school or high school to university, would necessitate a change in the study permit.
Post-Graduate Work Permit program
Graduates from Canadian DLIs might qualify to apply for an open work permit via the Post-Graduate Work Permit program. However, not all programs at DLIs qualify, so it’s crucial to check your program’s eligibility.
Gaining work experience in Canada can enhance your chances of securing permanent residency through the Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class program. Students graduating from one educational level can apply for a new program and study permit for another level. Depending on their qualifications, they might also qualify for direct permanent residence via the Federal Skilled Worker or Provincial Nomination Programs.
Navigating the process of obtaining a Canadian study permit can feel daunting. Our expert team is ready to assist you every step of the way. We can walk you through the application process and clarify the terms and conditions of your study permit.
Contact us to schedule your free consultation. We’re committed to making your journey to study in Canada as seamless and worry-free as possible.
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By Kaveh Rezaei – Attorney at KR Law Firm
Disclaimer
This article contains information of a general nature only and does not constitute legal advice. All legal matters have their own specific and unique facts and will differ from each other. If you have a specific legal question, it may be appropriate to seek the services of a lawyer.
