What Is a Study Permit?
A Canadian Study Permit is an official document issued by IRCC that allows foreign nationals to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). It is not a visa — you may also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA to enter Canada, depending on your nationality.
Who Needs a Study Permit?
You need a study permit if:
- Your program duration is over 6 months
- You are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- You are enrolling in a primary, secondary, post-secondary, or vocational program
You may not need a study permit if your program is 6 months or shorter — but applying can still offer flexibility for future extensions.
Application Requirements
To apply for a study permit, you must submit:
✓ Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI
✓ Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), if required by the province
✓ Proof of financial support (tuition + $20,635 for living + travel)
✓ Valid passport
✓ Statement of Purpose (SOP)
✓ Medical exam or police clearance (if applicable)
Application Process
- Apply to a DLI and receive LOA
- Receive PAL (if applicable)
- Gather required documents
- Apply online via IRCC portal or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
- Submit biometrics (if required)
- Wait for approval and receive Port of Entry (POE) Letter
Common Reasons for Refusal
🚫 Insufficient financial proof
🚫 Weak or generic SOP
🚫 Questionable travel history or purpose
🚫 Family ties not demonstrated
🚫 Not convincing officer of intent to return home
We help strengthen your application to reduce these risks.
Post-Approval Considerations
- Your study permit is valid for the length of your program + 90 days
- You may apply to extend your permit from inside Canada
- Upon graduation, you may become eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
How We Can Help ?
At Sapra Immigration Services Inc., we:
- Review and complete your entire study permit application
- Assist with strong SOP and documentation
- Guide you if you were refused before
- Help with change of status or permit extensions
- Provide support for your spouse and children if they are accompanying you
- Step 1: Determine Eligibility
- Step 2: Create Your Express Entry Profile
- Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
- Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Step 5: Prepare Your Application
- Step 6: Submit Your Complete Application within timeframe
- Step 7: Respond to Additional Information Requests
- Step 8: Receive Your Decision
- Step 9: If Approved, Receive Your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) Document