Here is the detailed schedule for the Canadian study permit process:
Gather the required documents
You must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a Canadian study permit:
Travel documents: This includes an authentic passport or other legal travel document.
Acceptance letter: The letter must be from a Designated Educational Institution (DLI) to be valid for the study permit application process.
Proof of financial support: Provide proof that you have sufficient funds to complete the following tasks:
- Cover the costs of the first year of study according to the IDD
- Cover all expenses for your first year of stay in Canada, as well as those of your accompanying family members
- Sufficient funds for the transportation of themselves and their accompanying family members from their country of origin to Canada.
- All funds required must be in liquid form, i.e. in an account belonging to the student or principal applicant, a close friend, parent or spouse.
Medical exam: A complete medical examination not only of the student but also of any accompanying loved ones. The study permit application process will be faster if you take this exam before applying and submit the documents with the application.
Or you can wait for the medical examination notice after submitting the study application, but it will take longer. You must submit the results within 30 days of receiving the medical examination request. Please note that the cost of the exam will depend on the designated doctor you see – doctors authorized by Canadian Immigration to perform medical assessments for immigrants.
Criminal record: In rare cases, you may be asked to acquire criminal records to ensure that you do not pose a threat to the country.
Justificative documents: These documents differ from country to country and must all accompany the study permit application. Visit the IRCC website for more information.
Submit biometric data
This includes your photo and fingerprints on a biometric data collection site once you receive a request for one after applying for the permit. You will receive a biometric instruction letter detailing these requirements and will need to pay a fee of $85 when you apply.
Depending on your country of origin, you may need to travel to another country or apply for a visa to submit biometrics to another country. If you are a US citizen or have provided biometric data within the last decade, you are exempt from this step.
Get the study permit approved
You will receive a letter of introduction if your study permit is approved. Once you receive it, submit it to the Canadian border services officer when you arrive in the country. You will obtain your exchange study permit at the border post or at the airport.
Before leaving the officer’s office, make sure the information on the permit is accurate and that it also indicates that you can work or accept employment while working in Canada. If they are not listed on the permit, request that they be added. Otherwise, you cannot work legally in the country and risk being deported if you find work.
Get a VRT or an eTA
Once your study permit is approved, you will receive either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization upon arrival in Canada. US citizens are exempt.
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