Canada Student Visa
To study in Canada, international students generally need a study permit. Here’s a detailed overview of the requirements and process for Canada Student Visa:
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a study permit, you must:
- Acceptance Letter: Have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Proof of Funds: Show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you, and return transportation.
- No Criminal Record: Have no criminal record and provide a police certificate if required.
- Good Health: Be in good health and get a medical exam if required.
- Intent to Leave: Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires.
Application Process
- Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including your acceptance letter, proof of funds, passport, and any other required documents.
- Apply Online: Submit your application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You can also apply on paper if you have accessibility issues.
- Pay Fees: Pay the application fee and, if applicable, the biometrics fee.
- Biometrics: Provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if required.
- Wait for Processing: Wait for your application to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on your country of residence.
- Decision: You will receive a decision on your application. If approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and, if applicable, a temporary resident visa to enter Canada.
These are general guidelines, and specific requirements can vary case by case. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements with a Canadian Certified Visa and Immigration Consultant.
Contact the Career Abroad Team for your profile assessment for admission at the French institutions and your visa process.
While Studying in Canada
- Maintain Status: Make progress towards completing your program and respect any conditions listed on your study permit.
- Work Opportunities: You may be eligible to work on or off-campus while studying. Check the conditions on your study permit to see if you are allowed to work.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): After graduation, you may be eligible for a PGWP, allowing you to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
2024 Immigration Changes
In 2024, Canada introduced significant changes to its immigration policies to enhance the quality of education for international students:
- Work Limit Adjustments: International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. This change balances work opportunities with academic focus.
- Institutional Accountability: Designated learning institutions (DLIs) must now submit compliance reports and verify acceptance letters. Non-compliant institutions may face suspension from admitting new international students for up to a year.
- Study Permit Regulations: International students must apply and be approved for a new study permit before changing learning institutions. This ensures students are enrolled in legitimate programs and maintains the integrity of the International Student Program.
Immigration and settlement options of international students in Canada
Canada provides several pathways for international students to immigrate and settle in the country. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to gain work experience, which can be used to apply for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. Other options include the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which cater to skilled workers, including international graduates. For entrepreneurial students, the Start-Up Visa Program offers a route to permanent residency if they have innovative business ideas and support from designated organizations.
To help international students settle, Canada offers various support services such as language training, employment assistance, and community integration programs. Provinces also have specific initiatives to attract and retain international students, like the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). These programs aim to meet regional labor market needs and facilitate a smooth transition from study to permanent residency. Overall, Canada’s immigration and settlement options are designed to help international students build successful careers and lives in the country.