Canada is one of the best destinations for many international students. But since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, there have been many compromises due to travel bans and regulations imposed by various countries.

Despite the border closure in March 2020, the Canadian government has decided to reopen its borders and welcome back international students. Our goal today is to guide you through the Canadian student visa application process.

What is a Canadian study permit?

A Canadian study permit is a document issued to international students by the IRCC. It is a type of permission for foreign students to study at a designated educational institution (DLI) in Canada.

All foreign students must have a study permit to study in Canada. Note that the Canadian study permit is not a visa.

Therefore, you must apply for a visa or an eTA (electronic travel authorization) to enter Canada even after you have received your study permit.

Eligible to apply for a study permit

You can apply for a study permit in Canada if:

You can demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to fund your studies:
Tuition fees
food and social assistance. You also provide for the welfare of all persons who have come to Canada with you (if applicable), and
Return tickets for yourself and anyone who came to Canada with you (if applicable).
Have no criminal record, be a law-abiding citizen of your country and provide a police clearance certificate (if required).
Have a medical examination by a recognised medical facility (if required) and be in good health, and
Ensure that you leave Canada after your study permit expires.

Documents required to apply for a Canadian study permit

Below is a list of the documents you will need to submit:

A letter of approval from your DLI (designated educational institution) that you will be attending, which must be on the list of DLIs with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan.
Proof of identity and
Proof of financial support.

You may also need to submit the following:

A certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ).
a letter of explanation
a statement from your legal guardians (minors only), or
as many documents as possible that are required for a complete application.

Apply for a study permit online

International students who wish to apply for a study permit can do so online, whether they are inside or outside Canada.

International students who have difficulty applying online can also apply on paper by visiting a Canadian embassy near them.