Home » Study in Canada » How to Get a Canada Study Permit

How to Get a Canada Study Permit

🇫🇷 Français

As an international student, if you are looking for an affordable and suitable country to pursue your studies in, then it is recommended to move to Canada. Since it is the most educated country, which is economic for students compared to the U.S. and U.K., it offers various programs under which international students can get a permanent residency in the country with ease.

How to Obtain a Canada Study Permit?

Step 1: Get Enrolled in a Canadian University

Begin the study visa application process by getting yourself enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The country boasts numerous affordable tertiary institutions.

Step 2: Apply for the Canadian Study Permit

Next step involves applying for the permit with the below-mentioned documents:

  • An acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) — required for most post-secondary applicants since 2024. Exception: As of January 1, 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs no longer need a PAL/TAL.
  • A valid passport or travel document.

Proof of funds to display you can fund yourself and any family members (who are moving along) during your stay in Canada. As of September 1, 2025, the minimum living-expense requirement is CAD $22,895 for a single applicant (increased from $20,635).

Additionally, as per your native country of origin, you may require other documents such as:

  • A letter of explanation.
  • A Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) — if studying in Quebec.
  • A custodian declaration, if you’re a minor.

Make sure that the application is correctly completed before submission.

Step 3: Pay Processing and Biometric Fees

At the end of the application, you are required to pay processing and biometric fees for yourself and anyone else on your application.

Step 4: Get Upfront Medical Receipt and Police Clearance Certificate (If Needed)

If your course duration is longer than six months, then you are required to present a medical test result. It can be either before or after the application submission. For the same, follow the instructions presented by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Step 5: Wait for the Application Results

Depending on the applicant’s native country, the application processing time varies. The Student Direct Stream (SDS), which previously offered faster processing (typically within 20 calendar days) for eligible countries, was officially discontinued on November 8, 2024. All applications are now processed under the regular study permit stream. Processing times vary by country and volume.

If you’re considering moving to Canada for further studies and want to boost your chances of approval, turn to the experts at ImmigCanada Immigration Consulting Services. Our professionals will work closely with you to navigate the permit process and ensure your success.