Student Visa
education and gain valuable experience
Studying in Canada is a great opportunity for students from around the world who want to expand their education and gain valuable experience. In order to study in Canada, you may need a student visa, also known as a study permit. This permit allows you to study in Canada for the duration of your program, and in some cases, work part-time while you study.
Who can apply for a student visa:
In order to be eligible to apply for a student visa, you must:
- Be accepted by a designated learning institution in Canada
- Prove that you have enough financial support to cover your tuition and living expenses while you study in Canada
- Pass a medical exam, if required
- Not have a criminal record and not pose a security risk to Canada
Eligibility criteria:
In addition to the above requirements, you must also meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a genuine student, meaning that your primary purpose for coming to Canada is to study, not to work or immigrate
- Have a valid passport or travel document
- Be able to show that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies
Who is exempt from a student visa:
In some cases, you may not need a student visa to study in Canada. You are exempt from a student visa if you are:
- A family member or staff member of a foreign representative to Canada who is accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD)
- A member of a foreign armed force under the Visiting Forces Act
- A minor child studying in Canada without a custodian
Extending a student visa:
If you want to continue your studies in Canada after your original study permit has expired, you must apply to extend your study permit before it expires. You must also meet the eligibility criteria for a student visa and have a valid reason for extending your studies.
Restoring your status as a student:
If your status as a student has lapsed, you can apply to restore it if you meet certain conditions. To be eligible, you must:
- Have a valid reason for not being able to meet the conditions of your original study permit
- Have maintained your ties to Canada during the time your status was lapsed
- Not have a criminal record or pose a security risk to Canada
If you need help with your student visa application, or have questions about the process, please fill out the form below and one of our experts will get in touch with you shortly.