Unlock your potential in Canada by ensuring your education journey continues seamlessly with a Study Permit Extension. Discover how to navigate the extension process efficiently, keeping your focus on achieving academic success. Ready to stay on track with your studies? Learn how to extend your study permit and maintain your status without interruptions.
Table of Contents
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by a country, such as Canada, that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs). It is a vital requirement for most international students who wish to pursue their studies in Canada. A study permit is not a visa; it does not, by itself, allow entry into Canada. You may also need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
Before You Apply
Before applying for a study permit in Canada, there are several essential steps and requirements you should be aware of.
Request an Initial Study Permit
1. Eligibility and Timing:
Apply for your initial study permit as soon as you receive a Letter of Acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. You must be approved before travelling to Canada, and a Study Permit Extension should be sought if your current permit is nearing expiration while continuing your studies.
2. Required Documents:
Letter of Acceptance: This should be from a DLI and can be conditional if necessary. Ensure to explain how you plan to meet any conditions.
Proof of Financial Support: Show evidence that you can cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year, which includes at least CAD $20,635 for living expenses plus tuition.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Required for many undergraduate programs, but not typically for master’s or Ph.D. students.
Biometrics and Passport Copies: Biometrics may be needed, and you should provide a copy of your passport, including all pages with stamps or visas.
3. Application Process:
Online Application: Most applicants should apply online via the IRCC portal. You’ll need to create an account to submit your application and pay fees.
Student Direct Stream (SDS): For faster processing, some applicants from certain countries can apply through the SDS.
4. Additional Documentation:
Prepare a letter of explanation that outlines your study plan and ties to your home country. This helps immigration officers understand your intentions and future plans.
When is a Medical Examination Required?
1. Medical Exam Requirements: A medical exam might be required depending on your country of residence or the nature of your studies. It is often faster to complete this before applying for your study permit.
2. Upfront Medical Exam: Taking the exam before submitting your application can speed up processing times. Otherwise, you may need to provide results within 30 days of a request from immigration.
3. Cost and Process: The cost of a medical exam varies and must be conducted by a panel physician approved by Canadian immigration.
Overall, the process of applying for a study permit or a Study Permit Extension involves gathering the necessary documents, ensuring financial proof, and potentially undergoing a medical examination. It’s essential to check the latest guidelines and processing times to ensure a smooth application process.
When to Apply
When applying for a study permit or a Study Permit Extension in Canada, timing is crucial to ensure a smooth process and avoid delays.
1. Apply Early: It’s recommended to apply for your study permit as soon as you receive your letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. This is because processing times can vary significantly depending on the country you are applying from and the volume of applications received at any given time.
2. Check Processing Times: The processing time for study permits can take up to three months or more. It’s important to check the current processing times on the IRCC website to ensure you allow sufficient time for your application to be processed.
3. Student Direct Stream (SDS): If you are a legal resident of certain countries, you may be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This stream aims to process applications within 20 calendar days, but eligibility criteria and specific documentation are required.
4. Provincial Requirements: Some provinces require additional documentation, such as a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), before you apply. Make sure you understand the requirements specific to the province where your institution is located.
5. Application Submission: Most applicants should apply online for their study permits or a Study Permit Extension, whether they are inside or outside Canada. However, if you have a disability or face technical issues with the online application, you can apply on paper.
By applying early and ensuring all required documents are prepared and submitted, you can enhance the likelihood of a timely approval for your study permit.
How to Apply
Applying for a study permit to study in Canada involves several steps, and it’s essential to ensure you have all the necessary documents and meet the eligibility requirements.
1. Obtain an Acceptance Letter
Before applying for a study permit, you need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This letter is crucial for your application, as it confirms your enrollment in a recognized educational program.
2. Check Eligibility and Prepare Documents
Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for a study permit. You will need several documents, including:
Proof of Identity: A valid passport or travel document.
Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your studies, including tuition fees and living expenses.
Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL): As of 2024, most students need to include a PAL/TAL with their application unless exempt.
3. Apply Online
Applying online is the most efficient method, whether you are outside or inside Canada. Here’s how to proceed:
Create an Account: Use the IRCC portal to create an account. You may need an invite code for your first login.
Complete the Online Form: Fill out the application form with all required information and upload your documents.
Pay the Fees: Application fees can be paid online using a credit card.
4. Consider the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
If you’re a legal resident of certain countries, you can apply through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing. This process requires meeting specific requirements, such as providing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) and proof of language proficiency.
5. Submit Your Application
After completing the form and uploading your documents, submit your application through the IRCC portal. You will receive confirmation of submission and can check your application status online.
6. Provide Biometrics
Most applicants are required to give biometrics (fingerprints and photo) as part of the application process. This can be done at a local Visa Application Centre.
7. Await Decision and Prepare for Arrival
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If approved, you’ll get a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and, if necessary, a temporary resident visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
How do I Renew or Apply for a Study Permit?
To apply for a new study permit or renew your existing one in Canada, follow these steps:
1. Application Timing: Apply at least 30 days before your current study permit expires. This ensures you can continue your studies without interruption.
2. Online Application: Most students need to apply online through the IRCC portal. Make sure you have the necessary documents, such as your acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and proof of financial support.
3. Expired Permits: If your permit expires before you apply for an extension, you must stop studying and apply to restore your status within 90 days.
4. Additional Requirements: Depending on your situation, you might need to provide biometrics, pay application fees, and ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
How do I Find out if My School is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
1. Check the DLI List: You can verify if your school is a DLI by consulting the list on the Government of Canada’s official website. This list contains schools approved to host international students.
2. DLI Number: Each DLI has a unique number, which should be on your acceptance letter. Make sure your school is still a DLI when you apply, as its status can change.
3. Impact of DLI Status Change: If your school’s status changes after your study permit is issued, you can continue studying until your permit expires. However, for extensions, you must be enrolled at a school that maintains its DLI status.
Are there Any Conditions on My Study Permit?
Yes, there are conditions that Study Permit Extension holders in Canada must adhere to:
1. Study Requirements: You must remain enrolled at a DLI and actively pursue your studies. This means attending classes, completing coursework, and meeting academic progress standards.
2. Authorised Work: Your study permit may include conditions on whether you can work on or off-campus. Ensure you adhere to these restrictions.
3. Program Changes: If you change programs or institutions, update your study permit information as necessary.
4. Leaves and Extensions: You can take authorised leaves (up to 150 days) under certain circumstances, but you cannot work during these periods.
5. Expiry and Compliance: You must leave Canada when your permit expires unless you’ve applied for an extension or change in status.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your study permit remains valid and you can continue your studies in Canada without issues.
Gather Documents
When applying for a Study Permit Extension to Canada, gathering the necessary documents is a crucial step. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the documents you need:
1. Proof of Acceptance
You need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This letter should clearly show the DLI number, which is required for your application. If you’re applying to primary or secondary schools, you don’t need to provide a DLI number.
2. Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation for yourself and any accompanying family members. Acceptable proofs include:
– A Canadian bank account in your name, if money has been transferred to Canada.
– A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution.
– Bank statements for the last four months.
– Proof of a student or educational loan from a bank.
– Proof you have paid tuition and housing fees.
– A letter from a person or school providing you with funding.
3. Proof of Identity
You will need a valid passport or travel document for yourself and any accompanying family members. You should also provide two recent passport-sized photos, meeting the photo requirements outlined by the Canadian government.
4. Provincial Attestation Letter or Territorial Attestation Letter (if applicable)
Depending on the province or territory you plan to study in, you might need to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL).
5. Other Documents You May Need
Letter of Explanation: This helps the visa officer understand your study plans and affirm your commitment to fulfilling the conditions of your Study Permit Extension.
Medical Exam: You might need a medical examination if you plan to stay in Canada for more than six months or if you have lived in certain countries recently.
Custodian Declaration (for minors): If you are a minor, you will need a custodianship declaration form signed by your parent or legal guardian and the custodian in Canada.
Additional Documents: Depending on your country of residence, additional documents may be required to prove your immigration status. Check the visa office instructions specific to your country for any local requirements.
Ensuring you have all the required documents and submitting a complete application package can help expedite the processing of your study permit application.
Proof of Financial Support While You Study in Canada
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you need to provide proof of financial support to demonstrate that you can cover tuition fees and living expenses while studying. Here are the main ways you can show this proof:
1. Bank Statements: Provide bank statements from the past four months that demonstrate you or your sponsor have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses. These statements should be on official bank letterhead and include the bank’s seal and signature.
2. Canadian Bank Account: If you have transferred money to Canada, provide proof of a Canadian bank account in your name.
3. Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): A GIC is a secure investment that Canadian banks offer to international students as proof of funds. It shows that you have enough money to sustain yourself during your studies.
4. Loan Approval Letter: If you are funding your studies with a student or education loan, provide an official letter from the bank confirming the loan and its terms.
5. Scholarship or Funding: Include proof of any scholarships, grants, or financial awards you have received that will contribute to your educational expenses.
6. Payment of Tuition and Housing: Show receipts or proof that you have already paid for your tuition and housing.
7. Letter from Sponsor: If a family member or another sponsor is providing you with financial support, include a letter from them detailing their commitment and evidence of their financial capability, such as their bank statements.
Financial Requirements: As of January 1, 2024, the minimum amount required to support yourself is CAD 20,635 per year, excluding tuition. If you have family members accompanying you, additional funds are required:
– For one family member: CAD 5,055
– For each additional family member: CAD 5,559.
It’s crucial to gather all required documentation and ensure your financial proof is thorough and accurate to avoid delays or rejection of your study permit application.
Pay the Fees
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you need to pay certain fees as part of your application process.
Step 1: Determine the Fees
1. Study Permit Processing Fee: The basic processing fee for a study permit is CAD 150.
2. Biometrics Fee: If required, you must pay a biometrics fee of CAD 85. This fee is applicable when you need to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
3. Additional Fees: Depending on your situation, you might have other fees, such as those for extending your permit or applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
Step 2: Pay the Fees Online
1. Create an Online Account: Visit the IRCC website and create an account if you haven’t already. This is where you will submit your application and pay the fees.
2. Choose Payment Method: You can pay using a credit card, prepaid card, or debit card. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay.
3. Complete the Payment: After selecting the correct fee category, proceed to make the payment. Be sure to save a copy of your payment receipt.
Step 3: Include Receipt in Your Application
Upload Receipt: Once you have completed the payment, upload the receipt to your online application under the ‘Fee Payment’ section.
Incorrect Fee Payment
1. Payment issue – No fee included: If you submit your application without including the required fees, it may be returned or rejected. It’s crucial to verify that all applicable fees have been paid before submission.
2. Payment issue – Not enough fees included: Similar to no fee inclusion, if you don’t pay the full required amount, your application will not be processed. Ensure that you cover all components of the application fee.
3. Payment issue – Overpayment: If you accidentally pay more than the required amount, IRCC may process a refund for the overpayment. Keep records of your payment to facilitate this process.
4. Payment issue – Required biometric fee not included: If your application requires biometrics and you do not include the CAD 85 fee, your application will be incomplete and not processed.
Refunds
1. Eligibility for Refunds: If you withdraw your application before processing or if your application is rejected for reasons other than missing fees, you may be eligible for a refund. Note that the biometrics fee is non-refundable if the biometrics have already been processed.
2. Refund Process: To request a refund, you need to contact IRCC directly and provide details about your payment and application. Keep your payment receipts and any related correspondence handy to speed up the process.
3. Overpayment Refunds: If you’ve overpaid, IRCC will automatically initiate a refund, but it’s a good idea to follow up if you don’t receive it within a reasonable time.
Ensuring you pay the correct fees is crucial for the smooth processing of your Study Permit Extension application.
After You Apply
After you apply for a Study Permit Extension in Canada, there are several steps and considerations to be aware of.
1. Biometrics Appointment
If your application requires biometrics, you will receive a letter instructing you on how to schedule an appointment to provide your fingerprints and photo. This must be completed within 30 days of receiving the letter. Biometrics are typically collected at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
2. Application Processing
Once you have submitted your application and biometrics (if required), the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will process your application. During this process, they will check your documents for completeness and may ask you for additional information or to attend an interview.
Medical Exam or Police Certificate: If requested, you might need to undergo a medical exam or provide a police certificate.
Tracking Your Application: You can track the status of your application using the IRCC application status tracker. To use this tool, you need your unique client identifier (UCI) and application number.
3. Receiving a Decision
Approval: If your application is approved, you will receive a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction. This letter is not your Study Permit Extension but confirms that you are allowed to study in Canada.
You must present this letter to a border services officer when you arrive in Canada. If applicable, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a temporary resident visa (TRV) will also be issued.
Rejection: If your application is rejected, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. Common reasons include not demonstrating sufficient financial support, failing to pass a medical exam, or not convincing the officer that your main purpose in Canada is to study.
4. After Arrival in Canada
When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will verify your documents and may ask questions about your stay. If everything is in order, they will issue your study permit. Ensure you carry all the required documents, including your POE letter and any additional paperwork specified in your approval notice.
5. Conditions on Your Study Permit
Once you have your study permit, you must comply with its conditions, such as maintaining enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), making progress in your studies, and respecting the permit’s expiration date. If you change schools or programs, you must update your permit information with IRCC.
By understanding these steps, you can better prepare for what happens after submitting your Study Permit Extension application, ensuring a smoother transition to studying in Canada.
Factors that Can Facilitate Processing
After applying for a Study Permit Extension to Canada, there are various factors that can either facilitate or delay the processing of your application. Understanding these factors can help you prepare and potentially expedite the process.
1. Complete Application: Submitting a complete application with all required documents, including proof of financial support, a valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, and any other necessary paperwork, can speed up the process.
2. Biometrics Submission: Scheduling and completing your biometrics appointment as soon as possible after receiving the instruction letter can prevent delays.
3. Student Direct Stream (SDS): If you are eligible for the SDS, applying through this stream can result in faster processing times, typically within 20 calendar days, provided you meet all the requirements.
4. Medical Exam and Police Certificates: If your application requires a medical exam or police certificates, completing these promptly and submitting them along with your application can facilitate quicker processing.
5. Up-to-date Contact Information: Ensuring that your contact information is current and promptly responding to any requests for additional information or documents from IRCC can help prevent unnecessary delays.
Factors that May Delay Processing
1. Incomplete Application: Missing documents or incomplete forms can lead to your application being returned or delayed. It’s essential to carefully review the application requirements and ensure everything is included.
2. High Volume of Applications: Processing times can be affected by the volume of applications received by IRCC, especially during peak periods such as the start of academic terms.
3. Additional Document Requests: If IRCC requires additional information or documents that were not included in your initial application, responding slowly to these requests can delay processing.
4. Biometrics Delays: Not scheduling or completing your biometrics promptly can slow down your application. Delays in biometric collection at VACs can also impact processing times.
5. Medical and Security Checks: Delays in completing required medical exams or obtaining police certificates can hold up your application. Ensure these are done as early as possible if requested.
6. Travel Restrictions or Pandemics: Global events such as pandemics or international crises can lead to unforeseen delays in processing applications.
By understanding these factors and preparing accordingly, you can help ensure that your Study Permit Extension application is processed as efficiently as possible.
What to Do if Your Permit Expires?
If your Study Permit Extension in Canada has expired, you need to take immediate steps to restore your status and continue your studies legally.
Steps to Take if Your Study Permit Expires
1. Act Quickly: You must apply to restore your status and obtain a new study permit within 90 days of your permit’s expiration. If you fail to do so within this timeframe, you must leave Canada and reapply for a study permit from outside the country.
2. Apply for Restoration: To restore your status, you need to submit an application that includes both a request to restore your temporary resident status and an application for a new study permit. You will need to pay a restoration fee of CAD 200, in addition to the CAD 150 fee for a new study permit.
3. Maintained Status: If you applied for an extension before your study permit expired, you can continue studying under the same conditions as your original permit until a decision is made on your application. This is known as maintained status.
4. Stop Studying If Overdue: If your permit has expired and you did not apply for an extension before its expiration, you must stop studying immediately until your status is restored and a new permit is issued.
5. Prepare Your Application: When applying for restoration, include all necessary documentation such as your letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, proof of financial support, and any other required documents. Clearly explain in your application why you need to extend your stay.
6. Family Members: If your family members are in Canada with you, they may also need to apply to restore their status if their permits are linked to yours.
Taking these steps promptly and ensuring all documents are accurate will increase your chances of restoring your status successfully.
Restoration of Status
If your temporary resident status in Canada, such as a study permit, has expired, you can apply for restoration of status within 90 days.
1. Eligibility: You can apply for restoration if your status expired within the last 90 days and you met all the conditions of your stay before expiration. This includes not working illegally or violating other permit conditions.
2. Application Process: You must apply for a new Study Permit Extension and restore your temporary resident status simultaneously. This is done by submitting an application online or by paper if necessary.
3. Fees: The restoration process involves a fee of CAD 229 for restoration and CAD 150 for a new study permit, totaling CAD 379.
4. Application Requirements:
Restoration Form: Fill out the restoration form (IMM 5709), selecting “Restore my status as a student.”
Supporting Documents: Include a letter explaining why you need to restore your status and any other required documents.
Submission: Ensure your application is complete and submitted within the 90-day window after your status expires.
5. While Awaiting a Decision: After submitting your restoration application, you may remain in Canada, but you cannot study or work until your status is restored.
6. Consequences of Delayed Action: If you do not apply within 90 days, you will need to leave Canada and apply for a new permit from outside the country.
Restoring your status promptly and ensuring your application is thorough will help you continue your studies in Canada.
Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)
The Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) is a document used in the Canadian immigration process to appoint someone to act on your behalf with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Appointing a Representative: The form allows you to officially designate a representative, such as an immigration consultant, lawyer, family member, or friend, to manage communications and act on your behalf for your immigration or citizenship application.
Cancelling a Representative: You can also use the form to cancel a previously appointed representative.
Types of Representatives
1. Unpaid Representatives: These individuals provide assistance without any fee. They can be friends, family members, or even professional advisors like lawyers who do not charge for their services.
2. Paid Representatives: These are professionals such as lawyers, immigration consultants, or notaries who charge a fee for their services. Paid representatives must be members in good standing with a regulatory body such as the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), a Canadian provincial or territorial law society, or the Chambre des notaires du Québec.
Using the Form
Filling Out the Form: Include your details and the representative’s information. If the representative is paid, you must provide their membership ID with the appropriate regulatory body.
Submitting the Form: Attach the form to your immigration or citizenship application. If you have already submitted your application, you can submit the form separately using the IRCC Web form.
Working While Studying
As an international student in Canada, working while studying is a great way to gain valuable experience and supplement your finances.
Eligibility to Work
1. Study Permit Conditions: Your study permit must include a condition that allows you to work on or off campus. You can verify this by checking your permit or asking an immigration officer when you arrive in Canada.
2. Full-time Enrollment: You must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) to be eligible to work off-campus without a work permit.
3. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Before you start working, you need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada. This is necessary for legal employment in Canada.
Work Limits
1. Off-Campus Work: As of May 1, 2024, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer and winter holidays.
2. On-Campus Work: There are no restrictions on the number of hours you can work on campus, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Types of Work
1. On-Campus Jobs: These include positions at the university or college itself, working for faculty members, student organisations, or even self-employment on campus.
2. Off-Campus Jobs: You can work for any employer outside the university. This flexibility allows you to gain experience in various fields.
3. Co-op and Internships: If your academic program includes a co-op or internship component, you must apply for a co-op work permit. This is necessary even if you are eligible to work on or off-campus.
Is a Work Permit Required to Work on Campus?
As an international student in Canada, you are allowed to work on campus without needing a separate work permit, provided you meet certain eligibility criteria.
1. Study Permit Conditions: Your study permit must have a condition printed on it that authorises you to work on or off campus. This condition should specify your eligibility to work under specific regulations (R186(f), (v), or (w)).
2. Full-Time Enrollment: You must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) such as a public university or college. In your final semester, you may still be eligible if you are part-time, provided you’ve been full-time for the rest of your program.
3. Social Insurance Number (SIN): To work on campus, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). You can apply for a SIN once you have a Study Permit Extension that states you are eligible to work.
Is it Possible to Work as Part of a Co-op or Internship Program?
Yes, as an international student in Canada, you can participate in a co-op or internship program if it is a required part of your academic program.
1. Mandatory Requirement: To be eligible for a co-op or internship work permit, your academic program must require you to complete work placements in order to graduate. You will need a letter from your school confirming that work experience is necessary for your program.
2. Valid Study Permit: You must have a valid Study Permit Extension that authorises you to study in Canada.
3. Co-op Work Permit: You need a co-op work permit to work in a co-op or internship. This is separate from the study permit and the standard off-campus work authorization that allows you to work part-time during your studies.
4. Exemptions: You do not need a co-op work permit if your work placement is less than 50% of your total program or if it’s not an essential part of your program.
Can My Spouse or Common-Law Partner Find Employment in Canada While I am Studying?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can work in Canada while you are studying, but they will typically need to obtain a work permit.
1. Eligibility: To be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit, you must have a valid study permit and be enrolled full-time in a program at a public post-secondary institution (such as a college or university) or a private post-secondary institution that operates under the same rules as public institutions.
2. Work Permit Features: The SOWP allows your spouse to work for any employer in Canada without needing a job offer before applying. This work permit is open, meaning it does not tie your spouse to any specific job or employer.
3. Application Process: Your spouse can apply for a SOWP either before coming to Canada or after arriving. The application process generally involves providing proof of your enrollment in a qualifying educational program and documents verifying your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or evidence of a common-law partnership.
4. Duration: The open work permit is usually valid for the same duration as your Study Permit Extension, allowing your spouse to work as long as you are studying in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a summary of the frequently asked questions related to temporary resident status and Study Permit Extension in Canada:
Who Qualifies for Temporary Resident Status?
Temporary resident status in Canada applies to foreign nationals who wish to visit, work, or study in Canada for a limited period. This includes visitors, students with Study Permits Extension, and workers with work permits.
Each category has specific eligibility requirements, such as having sufficient funds to support oneself, not having a criminal record, and intending to leave Canada at the end of the stay.
How Can I Find out the Expiration Date of My Temporary Resident Status?
The expiration date of your temporary resident status is typically printed on your study or work permit. If you entered Canada with a temporary resident visa, the date is also stamped in your passport. It’s essential to check these documents and ensure you comply with the conditions stated.
Are there Any Activities that Don’t Need a Study Permit Extension?
Certain short-term studies do not require a study permit in Canada. This includes courses that are six months or less in duration, such as general interest courses or workshops. However, if the program is longer than six months or is part of a longer course of study, a study permit is required.
What Steps should I Take if I Want to Transfer Schools or Institutions?
If you want to transfer schools or programs, you need to inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
You can do this by logging into your online account and updating your Study Permit Extension details. It’s crucial to ensure that your new school is a designated learning institution (DLI).
What is the Procedure for Minors Studying Without Parents?
Minors studying in Canada without parents must have a custodian, which is a responsible adult in Canada who takes care of them.
The parents and the custodian must sign a notarized declaration confirming the custodianship arrangement. This document is necessary when applying for a study permit.
Can I Leave Canada Before My Study Permit Application is Approved?
If you leave Canada while your study permit application is in process, you may need to apply for a new visa to return, depending on your nationality. It’s important to have a valid travel document and the required visa to re-enter Canada.
Can I Leave and Return to Canada with a Valid Study Permit?
Yes, you can leave and return to Canada with a valid Study Permit Extension, but you will also need a valid entry document, such as a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA), depending on your nationality. Ensure that these documents are valid before travelling.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of studying in Canada involves understanding various aspects of temporary resident status, work permits, and Study Permit Extension.
From determining eligibility for temporary residency to managing changes like transferring schools or applying for a spousal open work permit, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared.
Understanding these details helps ensure a smooth experience for international students and their families as they pursue education in Canada.
Whether you’re planning to study, work, or bring family members with you, it’s essential to keep abreast of the latest immigration rules and guidelines. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and take advantage of opportunities that arise during your time in Canada.
We’d love to hear from you! What challenges have you faced or what questions do you have about studying in Canada? Share your thoughts and experiences, and let us know how we can support you on your journey.