In most cases, you must apply for a study permit before coming to Canada. Make sure you have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution in Canada before you apply. Your study permit isn’t a travel document, your permit will let you study in Canada. If you are approved for a study permit, you will also be given either a visitor visa or an eTA, depending on which document you need. This document will let you enter Canada.
The benefits of the Study Permit:
- Even if you don’t need a study permit, you may want to apply for one. If you want to work while you’re studying, or you decide to study longer than 6 months in Canada, you’ll need a study permit.
- You will gain the opportunity to experience living, working and studying in Canada, before making a permanent move to Canada.
- By studying in Canada, you will be able to improve your English and also your school credentials. Both of these may increase your points towards the Express Entry program in Canada for skilled workers.
- Your spouse or common law partner may be able to get a work permit for the duration of your studies.
- After you graduate from your program of studies you may be able to get a post-graduation work permit. The work experience you gain while working may help you to qualify for permanent residency.
These are only a few of the potential benefits that you may have with your Study Permit.
If you want a Study Permit, what would you need to do next?
- You will have to collect documents such as Passport photographs, Academic Documents, Police Certificate, proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for at least one year in Canada and more.
- You will need to complete your application forms.
- Any document not in English or French must be accompanied by a certified translation.
- You will have to pay administration or tuition fees.
- Most people have to give biometrics when they apply for a visitor visa, a study or work permit or permanent residence. Canadian visa officers use biometrics to confirm your identity.
- You may need a medical exam to study in Canada.
- Preparations such as paying administration or tuition fees are done at your own risk until you receive from the Embassy the Letter of Authorization to study in Canada.
All said and explained in this article does not constitute a legal opinion and does not replace legal advice. Responsibility for using the wordings and opinions conveyed in this article relies solely and entirely on the reader.
This article was written by Dotan Cohen Law Offices, working in the field of immigration law in the United States, Canada and Australia.
