Student Visa & Study Permit

A study permit is the written authorization, issued by an immigration officer, that allows a foreign national to study in Canada. It is issued at the same time as the student visa, so the two go hand in hand throughout your application.

Student Visa

The student visa is issued at the same time as your study permit. To apply for a student visa, you must be one of the following:

• A minor (below 18 years old in Ontario). A minor must have a parent, legal guardian, or custodian in Canada. For a 17-year-old minor, a custodian may not be required, subject to the discretion of the immigration officer.
• An adult

Study Permit

The study permit is issued at the same time as the student visa. It is a written authorization, granted by an immigration officer, that allows a foreign individual to study in Canada.

Required Documents

To apply for a study permit, you must provide:

• Proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
• Proof of identity
• Proof of financial support

Optional Documents

You may also include these documents during your visa application process:

• Letter of Explanation (Statement of Purpose), covering:
  • Your reasons to study in Canada
  • Your responsibilities as a student in Canada
• Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ):
  • Issued by the Quebec Government
  • Required for a study program longer than 6 months in Quebec
• Custodian Declaration (for minors only)