A Canada study permit is a document that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. For many, it is the first step toward gaining world-class education and building a future in Canada. This guide explains who can apply, how to meet eligibility requirements, what documents are needed, and the conditions that students must follow once they arrive.
On This Page You Will Find
- Who can apply for a Canada study permit
- Financial requirements and proof of funds
- Required documents to include in your application
- Conditions you must follow as a study permit holder
- Exceptions and exemptions from study permit conditions
- Responsibilities during your studies
- What happens if you do not meet permit conditions
- Frequently asked questions
Who Can Apply for a Study Permit?
You may apply for a Canadian study permit if you:
- Are accepted by a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada
- Can prove you have enough money to pay for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation for yourself and any accompanying family members
- Obey the law, have no criminal record, and can provide a police certificate if required
- Are in good health and can complete a medical exam if required
- Can convince an officer that you will leave Canada when your permit expires
Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds
You must show you have sufficient financial support without relying on work in Canada. Your proof of funds can include:
- Receipt of tuition payment
- Proof of housing payment
- Canadian bank account in your name
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- Student loan documents
- Bank statements for the past 4 months
- Bank drafts
- Letters from financial supporters with supporting documents
- Scholarship letters or proof of funding from Canadian institutions
Living Expense Requirements (as of Sept 1, 2025 – outside Quebec)
| Family Members | Annual Amount (CAD) |
| 1 | $20,635 |
| 2 | $25,690 |
| 3 | $31,583 |
| 4 | $38,346 |
| 5 | $43,492 |
| 6 | $49,051 |
| 7 | $54,611 |
| Each additional | $5,559 |
These amounts do not include tuition or travel costs. You must also explain how you will fund the full duration of your studies.
Required Documents for Study Permit
To apply, prepare the following:
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- Provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL) or CAQ (for Quebec)
- Proof of identity: passport copy and passport-sized photos
- Proof of funds (as outlined above)
- Letter of explanation: Why you want to study in Canada and your understanding of student responsibilities
- Medical exam results, if applicable
- Police certificate, if requested
- Custodianship documents for minors under 17 if not accompanied by a parent
- Any local visa office documents based on your country of application
Conditions of a Canada Study Permit
Once in Canada, you must:
- Be enrolled at a DLI
- Pursue your studies actively (enrolled full-time or part-time each semester)
- Apply to extend your permit if switching post-secondary institutions
- Stop studying if you no longer meet requirements
- Leave Canada once your permit expires
Your permit may also list additional conditions such as:
- Whether you can work during your studies
- Required medical reporting
- Travel restrictions within Canada
- Program level
- The date you must stop studying
Authorized Leaves and Program Deferrals
You may take a leave of up to 150 days if it is:
- Approved by your DLI for medical reasons, pregnancy, family emergency, or other school-approved reasons
- Due to school closure or deferral
- The result of switching institutions
During an authorized leave, you cannot work, even if your permit allows it.
Proving You Are Following Study Permit Conditions
IRCC may randomly check or investigate if they suspect a violation. You may need to provide:
- Transcripts
- Enrolment confirmation
- Medical documentation (for leave)
- Evidence of school closure
- References or other official documents
Failure to meet your conditions could result in removal from Canada and a 6-month ban on reapplying.
Exemptions from Study Permit Conditions
Some people do not need to prove they are actively studying or enrolled at a DLI, including:
- Refugees or asylum claimants
- Staff or family of diplomats and international representatives
- Foreign military personnel and family
- Certain U.S. government employees and dependants
- Students in exchange programs
- Those facing unexpected financial hardship
- Children of people in Canada with specific permits or statuses
Even if exempt from enrolment conditions, you must still follow other conditions listed on your permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
After completing an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI), international students may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This open work permit allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience. The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the completed study program and can be valid for up to three years. This work experience can help graduates qualify for permanent residence through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry. To be eligible, students must have studied full-time and completed a program of at least eight months in length.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a study permit to study in Canada for less than 6 months?
No, if your program lasts 6 months or less, you can study without a permit. However, having one can make it easier to extend your stay or switch programs.
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes, if your study permit allows it and you are a full-time student at a DLI. You can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
What happens if I stop studying while in Canada?
You must inform IRCC and may have to leave Canada. You will also lose your eligibility to work and could be barred from reapplying for 6 months.
Do I need to show proof of funds every year?
You only need to show proof when applying for your permit, but you must ensure you have sufficient funds throughout your studies to maintain compliance.
Can my family come with me to Canada on a study permit?
Yes. You must show proof of funds to support them, and they may need to apply for their own visas or permits (e.g. open work permits for spouses, study permits for children).