Canada Visa – Temporary – Study – Extension

1. Who is eligible to apply for a Canadian study visa?


Anyone who has been accepted into a Canadian school or educational institution and can provide proof of financial means to support their studies, as well as meet all other requirements set by the Canadian government, is eligible to apply for a Canadian study visa. This includes international students from all countries, with the exception of those from designated countries that do not require a study visa for stays under 6 months.

2. Do I need a study visa if my program is less than 6 months?


It depends on your country of origin and the specific program you are enrolling in. Some countries do not require a study visa for programs under 6 months, while others may still require it regardless of the length of the program. It is best to check with the country’s immigration website or consulate for specific visa requirements.

3. How can I apply for a Canadian student visa?

To apply for a Canadian student visa, also known as a study permit, you will need to go through the following steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements set by the Canadian government. These include proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution, sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses, and meeting health and character requirements.

2. Gather required documents: You will need to gather the required documents to support your application such as proof of identity, proof of financial support, letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, etc.

3. Complete an application form: You can either download the application form from the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or fill it out online.

4. Pay the application fees: The application fees for a study permit is $150 CAD. You may also have to pay other fees such as biometrics fee ($85 CAD) depending on your nationality.

5. Submit your application: You can submit your application online through the IRCC website or in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Canadian embassy/consulate in your country.

6. Provide biometrics: Depending on your nationality, you may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a VAC.

7. Wait for processing: Once you have submitted all the required documents and paid the necessary fees, you will have to wait for your application to be processed. Processing times vary depending on where you are applying from.

8. Receive decision on your application: If your visa is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction which is not your actual study permit but confirms that it has been approved. You will need to present this along with other supporting documents when you arrive in Canada.

9. Plan for arrival in Canada: Before planning for travel to Canada, make sure you have received all necessary documents such as study permit, visa (if applicable), and letter of introduction.

10. Monitor your status: You can check the status of your application online using your application number.

Note: This process may vary slightly depending on where you are applying from, so it is important to carefully read the instructions provided by IRCC for your specific country. It is also recommended to apply for a study permit well in advance as processing times can vary.

4. What documents do I need to submit with my study visa application?


The documents required for a study visa application may vary depending on the country you are applying to. However, some common documents that are typically required include:
1. Completed visa application form
2. Valid passport
3. Acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution
4. Proof of financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses
5. Health insurance
6. Academic transcripts and certificates
7. Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
8. Visa application fee payment receipt
9. Passport-sized photographs
10. Any other additional documents as requested by the embassy or consular office. It is important to check the specific requirements for your chosen country before submitting your application.

5. Is there an age limit for applying for a Canadian study visa?


There is no official age limit for applying for a Canadian study visa. However, applicants should be at least 18 years old and have completed secondary education in order to be eligible for most study programs in Canada. Younger students may also be considered, but they will need to show proof of guardianship and demonstrate the necessary maturity to live and study independently in Canada.

6. Can I work while studying in Canada on a study visa?


Yes, you can work in Canada while studying on a study visa as long as you have a valid study permit and are enrolled in a designated learning institution. You can generally work for up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays or winter break.

However, there are some exceptions and restrictions depending on your program and location. Some programs may have specific work restrictions, and certain provinces may have their own rules regarding working while studying. It is important to check with your designated learning institution for more information on any limitations that may apply to your particular situation.

Additionally, you may also be required to obtain a work permit in addition to your study permit if you want to work off-campus or participate in co-op or internship programs related to your field of study. This will depend on the specific requirements of your program and the policies of your designated learning institution.

It is important to note that working while studying should not be relied upon as a means to fund your education in Canada. Your primary reason for being in Canada should be to study, and any earnings from part-time work should only supplement your living expenses.

7. How long does it take to process a Canadian student visa application?


The processing time for a Canadian student visa application varies depending on the country and individual circumstances. On average, it can take anywhere from 1-3 months for a student visa to be processed. It is important to apply as early as possible to allow enough time for the application to be processed before the start of your academic program. You can check the current estimated processing times for visas on the Government of Canada’s website.

8. Can I include my family members in my study visa application?


Yes, you can include your family members in your study visa application. This includes your spouse and dependent children, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for a study permit and you can show proof of funds to support them while they are in Canada. They will also need to provide biometric information and meet any other requirements set by the Canadian government.

9. Is there any financial requirement for obtaining a Canadian student visa?


Yes, there is a financial requirement for obtaining a Canadian student visa. Applicants must be able to provide proof that they have enough funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country. The exact amount of required funds may vary depending on the length of the study program and the location in Canada. It is important for applicants to carefully review and meet the financial requirements set by the Canadian government before submitting their visa application.

10. Can I switch from a temporary study permit to a permanent residency in Canada?


Yes, it is possible to switch from a temporary study permit to permanent residency. However, there are certain eligibility requirements and application processes that need to be followed. You may need to apply for a different immigration program such as the Canadian Experience Class or the Provincial Nominee Program, and meet specific criteria such as work experience and language proficiency.

It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a registered immigration consultant for guidance on the best way to transition from a study permit to permanent residency. They can help you understand your options and support you throughout the application process. It is important to note that there is no guarantee of approval and each case is assessed on its own merits by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

11. Can I travel outside of Canada while on a study permit?

Yes, you can travel outside of Canada as long as your study permit remains valid. However, if your study permit expires while you are outside of Canada, you will need to apply for a new one before returning. Additionally, make sure to have all necessary documents with you when travelling, such as a valid passport and student ID.

12. How do I extend my stay as an international student in Canada?

If you wish to extend your stay as an international student in Canada, you will need to apply for a study permit extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. You can apply for the extension online or by mail through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

To be eligible for a study permit extension, you must continue to meet the requirements of being a student, such as being enrolled in a designated learning institution in Canada and having enough financial resources to support yourself during your extended stay.

You may also need to provide additional documents such as updated proof of enrolment, updated financial documents, and a letter explaining why you need to extend your stay. Once you have submitted your application, it may take several weeks for the IRCC to process it.

It is important to note that if your study permit expires while you are waiting for a decision on your extension application, you can remain in Canada until a decision is made. However, you will not be able to attend classes or work during this time.

If your study permit extension is approved, the new expiry date will be indicated on your study permit and you will be able to continue studying and working in Canada until that date. If your application is refused, you may need to leave Canada immediately or apply for restoration of status.

It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant if you have any questions or concerns about extending your stay as an international student in Canada.

13. What is the difference between an extension and restoration of status?

An extension of status refers to the process of staying in Canada beyond the expiration date of a temporary resident permit (TRP), visitor visa, or study or work permit. This means that one can continue to live, work, or study in Canada without having to leave and re-enter the country.

On the other hand, a restoration of status refers to the process of restoring legal status in Canada for an individual who has fallen out of status due to various reasons such as failing to extend their permit before it expires. In this case, one must apply for a restoration within 90 days of losing their legal status in order to continue living, working, or studying in Canada.

14. Can I change schools or programs while on a study permit?

Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility for a study permit, you can change schools or programs while on a study permit. However, you must inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) of the change and provide them with updated information about your new school or program. You may also need to apply for an extension of your study permit if the duration of your new program is longer than the validity of your current permit. It is important to note that not all schools and programs are eligible for a study permit, so make sure to check with IRCC before making any changes.

15. Are students required to have health insurance in order to obtain a Canadian study permit?

Yes, international students are required to have health insurance in order to obtain a Canadian study permit. This is a mandatory requirement for all international students studying in Canada. The healthcare system in Canada is managed by the government, and international students are not eligible for public health insurance during their studies. Therefore, it is important for students to purchase private health insurance before arriving in Canada.

16. Do I need to provide biometrics when applying for a Canadian student visa?

Yes, most applicants for a Canadian student visa will need to provide biometrics. Biometrics are digital fingerprints and a digital photograph collected at a Visa Application Center (VAC). This is done at the time of application and the fee is paid at that time as well. Biometric information is valid for 10 years and can also be used for subsequent visa applications.

17. Can international students work off-campus while studying in Canada on a study permit?


Yes, international students with a valid study permit are allowed to work off-campus while studying in Canada. However, there are certain conditions that must be met in order for an international student to work off-campus:

1. Must be enrolled full-time in a designated learning institution (DLI).
2. Must have a valid study permit.
3. Must have already started studying.
4. Must be studying in an academic program that is at least six months long, leading to a degree, diploma or certificate.
5. Must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
6. The program of study must not require the student to do an internship or co-op placement as part of their curriculum.

If these conditions are met, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks such as winter and summer holidays.

It is important for international students to ensure they follow all the rules and regulations related to working off-campus while studying in Canada. Working without authorization or beyond the permitted hours can result in serious consequences, including deportation from Canada.

18. What are the limitations on working hours for international students with a study permit?


As per the Government of Canada’s regulations, international students with a valid study permit are limited to working a maximum of 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during designated breaks such as summer vacation. They are also allowed to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions as long as they meet certain eligibility requirements, including being enrolled at a designated learning institution. There are no limitations on working hours for international students with a study permit during scheduled breaks in their program or for co-op or internship placements that are required for their studies. It is important to note that these limitations still apply even if the student is not enrolled in classes or does not have any assignments or exams during a particular week. If an international student exceeds these limits, it could result in penalties such as loss of study permit and deportation from Canada.

19.Can international students stay in Canada after completing their studies on a study permit?

International students who have completed their studies in Canada can stay and work in Canada after graduation through a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). This work permit allows international graduates to gain valuable work experience related to their field of study for up to 3 years. After gaining work experience, international students may also be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Canada through various immigration programs. It is important to note that eligibility for a PGWP and other immigration programs may depend on individual circumstances and requirements set by the Canadian government.

20.Can visiting friends or relatives be considered as valid reason for obtaining a Canadian temporary resident visa?


Yes, visiting friends or relatives can be considered a valid reason for obtaining a Canadian temporary resident visa. In fact, this is one of the common reasons that people cite when applying for a temporary resident visa to Canada.