Difference between study permit and study visa in Canada

Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students. With its high-quality education system and abundant job opportunities, Canada has become an attractive destination for pursuing higher education. However, to enter Canada as a student, you must choose the appropriate type of visa. The two main options are the Study Permit and the Student Visa.

In this article, we will discuss the key differences between these two options to help you choose the best one for yourself.

What is a Study Permit in Canada and what are its benefits?

A Study Permit is a document that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It is a requirement for all international students who want to study in Canada for more than six months.

Here are some of the benefits of a Study Permit:

• It allows you to study at a DLI in Canada.
• It allows you to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks.
• It allows you to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after you graduate from a DLI in Canada.
• It allows your spouse and dependent children to accompany you to Canada and study or work there.

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Application for a Study Permit in Canada

To apply for a study permit, you must generally gather information about the specific requirements, regulations, and procedures for obtaining a student visa in the country where you intend to study. Each country has its own application procedures, so be sure to visit the official website of the embassy or consulate of that country for accurate and up-to-date information.

Review the requirements for a student visa application. In general, you will need to provide documents and information such as a letter of acceptance, financial documents, passport, health and character certificates, language test results, and a visa application form.

The processing time for a visa application varies by country. It may take several weeks or even months, so apply well in advance of your intended start date of studies.

To apply for a study permit, which is a document that allows international students to study in Canada, you must generally choose a course or program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Ensure that the institution you choose is listed on the Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) list.

Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, such as being accepted by a DLI, having sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, and good physical health. Gather the required documents for your study permit application. Specific documents may vary based on your country of residence and individual circumstances, but generally, you will need to provide a letter of acceptance, proof of financial support, passport, medical examination report, and a police clearance certificate.

The processing time for study permit applications can vary. Check the approximate processing times on the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and track the status of your application online. It is crucial to carefully review the official guidelines provided by the Government of Canada and follow them precisely throughout the application process.

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Documents Required for Applying for a Study Permit in Canada

As an international student intending to study in Canada, you will need to prepare the following documents when applying for a study permit:

1. Proof of Acceptance:

• Letter of acceptance from the designated educational institution. A copy of the original letter or an electronic version must be submitted with your study permit application.

Upon confirmation of acceptance, you will also be required to submit the original copy of your valid passport.

2. Proof of Identity

• A copy of your valid passport or travel document.

3. Proof of Financial Support

To demonstrate your financial ability to support yourself and any accompanying dependents, you will need to provide the following documents:

• A Canadian bank account in your name (if you have transferred funds to Canada)
• A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• Proof of a student loan from a bank
• Your bank statements for the past four months
• A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
• Proof of payment of tuition and housing fees
• A letter from your financial supporter (individual or educational institution)
• Proof of funding from within Canada if you have a scholarship or are enrolled in a Canadian-funded educational program

4. Additional Documents

The following additional documents may be required:

• A letter of explanation addressed to the visa officer outlining your reasons for studying in Canada and your understanding of your responsibilities as an international student.
• A Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you intend to study in Québec for more than six months.
• A letter of custodianship (for minors only) if a minor child will be accompanying you on your study program in Canada.
• Any other documents that may be requested by the Canadian immigration authorities.

Additional Considerations for Applying for a Study Permit in Canada

1. Medical Examination (Immigration Medical Examination (IME)):

An Immigration Medical Examination (IME) may be required for international students depending on their country of origin. This examination is mandatory if you intend to stay in Canada for more than six months or have traveled to other countries in the past year before immigrating to Canada.

2. Financial Documents:

Proof of financial support: As previously mentioned, demonstrating financial support is mandatory for obtaining a study permit. You can refer to the previous sections for detailed information on acceptable documents to prove your financial means.

3. Visa Fee Payment:

Proof of payment by credit card: To pay the visa application fee, you will need a credit card. As mentioned, the fee is 150 Canadian dollars, and the system only accepts credit card payments.

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Conclusion

Just as you need a passport and a boarding pass to travel to any country, you also need two separate documents called a “study permit” and a “study visa” to study in Canada.

A study permit is like a passport that allows you to stay in Canada legally for the duration of your studies. This permit is proof of your long-term residency in Canada and your status as a student.

A study visa is like a boarding pass. It allows you to enter Canada through border crossings upon arrival and serves as a temporary permit for your initial entry.

Obtaining both documents is essential for a hassle-free journey to your academic goals in Canada. The study permit allows you to stay and study in Canada, while the study visa helps you get there.

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Frequently asked questions

Difference Between a Study Permit and a Study Visa for Canada?

Study Permit

A study permit is a document that allows you to live in Canada while you are enrolled in a designated educational institution. It is considered long-term confirmation of your status as a student in Canada.

Study Visa

A study visa is a document that allows you to enter Canada as a student. It is typically issued at a port of entry, such as an airport or land border crossing.

Which is More Important?

Both a study permit and a study visa are essential for studying in Canada. The study permit allows you to stay and study in Canada, while the study visa allows you to enter the country.

Can I apply for both a study permit and a study visa at the same time?

No, you cannot apply for both a study permit and a study visa at the same time. You must apply for a study permit first, and then you can apply for a study visa once you have been approved for a study permit.

Can I study in Canada with a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not allow you to study in Canada. To study in Canada, you must obtain a study permit and a study visa.

Can I stay in Canada after graduation with a study permit?

Your study permit is typically valid until the end of your study program. If you wish to remain in Canada after graduation, you will need to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).