Study in Canada · 2026 Guide

Canadian Study Permits:
Every visa for studying in Canada.

Whether you need a study permit, the right to work during your program, or a Post-Graduation Work Permit after you graduate, we help international students and their families apply with confidence. Expert guidance from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) based in Vancouver.

Experience
30+ years
Certification
RCIC R411151
Languages
English · Español
Based in
Vancouver, B.C.
Index
04 visas · 04 categories
01
Study Permits
Study Permit · Extensions · Refused Permits
→
02
While Studying
Working While Studying · Change of School
→
03
After Graduation
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
→
04
Family Permits
Spousal Open Work Permit · Dependents
→
Your Journey

From choosing a school to building your career.

Six stages, one path. From applying to your first program to graduating with Canadian work rights, we know what comes next.

How we work

From consultation to Canadian classroom

A clear four step process designed to maximize your chances of approval while keeping you informed every step of the way.

01

Free consultation

We review your academic background, identify suitable Designated Learning Institutions, and outline realistic timelines. No commitment required.

02

Strategy & documents

We build your application strategy, prepare all forms, and guide you through the exact documents IRCC will require, including proof of funds and language tests.

03

Submission to IRCC

We submit your complete study permit application online through IRCC, and handle all communications with the department on your behalf.

04

Approval & arrival

We support you through approval, port of entry procedures, and next steps once you arrive at your Canadian school ready to start your studies.

See the detailed application process →
Frequently asked questions about immigrating to Canada

Canadian study permit processing times vary significantly by country of residence and visa office workload. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) closed in November 2024, so all applicants now go through the regular process. Times depend on country of residence, document completeness, and visa office workload.

You must show proof of funds covering tuition plus one year of living expenses. In 2026, IRCC requires CAD $22,895 outside Quebec or CAD $24,617 in Quebec, plus first year tuition. A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is the most common way to prove funds. Family members add to the threshold.

Yes. Eligible international students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks. On-campus work has no hourly limit. As of April 2026, no separate co-op work permit is required for program placements. You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) before starting any job.

Yes. As of January 2025, Spousal Open Work Permits are limited to spouses of students in PhD programs, master’s programs of 16+ months, or select professional programs (law, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and more programs). Dependent children no longer qualify for open work permits but can come as visitors or with study permits. Minor children can attend Canadian public schools.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets international graduates work for any Canadian employer for up to 3 years. To qualify, you must graduate from a PGWP-eligible DLI, complete an 8+ month program, maintain full time status, and apply within 180 days of graduation. Since November 2024, language test results are required (CLB 7 for degrees, CLB 5 for college diplomas).

Yes. The standard path is: graduate, get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), gain Canadian work experience, then apply for PR through Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or a Provincial Nominee Program. Canadian education and work experience boost your CRS score. Some provinces have international graduate streams for faster PR applications.

If your study permit is refused, IRCC sends a refusal letter explaining the reasons. Common grounds include insufficient proof of funds, weak ties to home, or doubts about genuine intent to study. You can reapply with stronger evidence or file a judicial review at the Federal Court (15 days in Canada, 60 days abroad).

Ready to start

Your Canadian education starts with a conversation.

Book a free assessment with a licensed RCIC. We’ll match you with the right study program and pathway.

Free Assessment
30+years RCIC R411151 English · Español Vancouver, B.C.