Studying in Canada
Canada is one of the world’s top destinations for international students, offering worldclass education and a clear pathway to permanent residency. A Study Permit is the key document that authorizes you to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Below is a plain-language overview of each study permit stream — who it’s for, what it allows, and who qualifies.
New student application from abroad
Study Permit — Outside Canada
If you have been accepted to a program at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and are currently living outside Canada, you must apply for a Study Permit before you arrive. A Study Permit is not a visa — it is the document that authorizes you to study in Canada. If your country also requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA, those will be issued alongside your Study Permit. Your permit will typically be valid for the length of your program plus 90 days, giving you time to prepare for departure or transition to another status.
WHO QUALIFIES
- Accepted to a program longer than 6 months at a DLI
- Currently residing outside Canada at time of application
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel
- Valid passport and no criminal inadmissibility
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a designated learning institution
- Intent to leave Canada at end of authorized stay (unless transitioning to PR)
- Must comply with any medical exam requirements if applicable
- Clean criminal record and valid passport
Applying for a study permit while already in Canada
Study Permit — Inside Canada
In certain situations you may be eligible to apply for In certain situations, you may be eligible to apply for a Study Permit from within Canada without having to leave the country first. This is available to individuals who are already in Canada in another status — such as a visitor, worker, or refugee claimant — and who have been accepted to a DLI. The rules around this are specific: not everyone in Canada can apply from inside, so it is important to confirm your eligibility before applying. If approved, the Study Permit will be valid for the duration of your program plus 90 days
WHO QUALIFIES
- Currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status
- Exempt categories include: family members of foreign workers or students, refugees and protected persons, and certain others as per IRCC rules
- Accepted to a DLI program with a valid Letter of Acceptance
- Proof of sufficient financial support
- Must not be inadmissible to Canada
- Visitor visa holders may apply in limited circumstances — eligibility must be confirmed
Renewing your study permit for a continuing or new program
Study Permit Extension
If your Study Permit is expiring and you are continuing your studies — whether in the same program, completing a co-op placement, or starting a new program at a different DLI — you must apply to extend your Study Permit before it expires. Applying on time is critical: if you apply before the expiry date, you are legally allowed to continue studying under “implied status” while your application is being processed. Failing to renew on time can result in loss of status and may affect your future immigration options, including eligibility for a Post-Graduate Work Permit.
WHO QUALIFIES
- Current Study Permit holder continuing enrollment at a DLI
- Students extending into a new program at the same or different DLI
- Students completing a mandatory co-op or internship placement
- Applicants must still be enrolled full-time (with limited exceptions)
- Proof of enrollment and financial support required
- Must apply from within Canada before current permit expires
- No serious violations of study permit conditions
How Shally Bothra Immigration Services can help you
At Shally Bothra Immigration Services, we know that pursuing your education in Canada is one of the most important investments you will ever make — and we want to make sure your immigration journey supports that goal, not complicates it. As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), Shally personally reviews your academic background, current status, and long-term goals to determine the right study permit pathway for you. From preparing a strong application with the right supporting documents, to advising you on work rights, study conditions, and how your study permit connects to future pathways like the Post-Graduate Work Permit and Permanent Residency, we provide end-to-end guidance every step of the way. Whether you are applying from abroad, already in Canada, or simply need to renew your permit — we are here to protect your status and your future. Book a consultation today, and let us help turn your Canadian education dream into reality.
