How to Obtain a Canada Student Visa

Studying abroad in Canada is an experience of a lifetime. In order to study as an international within Canadian borders you must obtain a Canada student visa, also called the study permit.  Follow these tips and learn how to obtain a Canada student visa for yourself!

Gather the appropriate documents.

You will need to complete required forms and submit official documents to apply for the Canadian study permit. You will need:

• Proof of acceptance and attendance at a Canadian educational facility. You must first apply and be accepted into a school before you start the visa application process.

• An application for a Study Permit from the Canadian Citizenship and Immigration website.

• Proof of your identity such as a valid passport. You must also bring six photos of yourself.

• You must bring along your proof of financial support such as bank statements. Your funds must be able to pay for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to your home country.

• If you will be studying in Quebec you will need an additional certificate of acceptance.

• Submit a Use of a Representative form. This allows someone else to take care of citizenship and immigration processes with the Canadian government on your behalf.

• You must submit a police certificate of security stating that you have no criminal convictions in you home country. 

• You must be in good health. Generally a medical examination form from a doctor is required.

• You must provide evidence that you will not remain in Canada. The immigration officer who interviews you must have no doubt that you plan to return to your home country after your studies are over.

Submit your application.

All your supporting documents must be submitted along with your study permit application to a Canadian visa office such as an embassy or consulate within your home country. You can find a list of offices on the Canadian Citizenship and Immigration website. Generally you should give yourself at least 2 months for the visa to be processed.

If you are applying from the US, Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, or Greenland you are allowed to apply for the student permit as you enter Canada.

When you submit your application you will need to pay an application fee of a Canadian $125. Note that this is subject to change.