Study Permit

A study permit enables you to enroll in educational programs in Canada. It is essential for all levels of education, including high school and master’s degree programs. At Davylaw, our team is committed to making the study permit application process as clear, efficient, and stress free as possible.

Requirements

A Canadian study permit is an official document that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most international students require a study permit to pursue academic, professional, or vocational training in Canada. DavyLaw offers comprehensive assistance to help you navigate the study permit application process, ensuring all legal requirements are met for a successful application.

Requirements Criteria

  • Acceptance Letter: Obtain a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
  • Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Introduced in January 2024, this letter is now a requirement for most new post-secondary international students applying for a study permit in Canada. The Provincial Attestation Letter serves as proof that the student has been accounted for under a province or territory’s allocation within the national cap on international study permits. Applicants must obtain this letter from the province or territory where their designated learning institution (DLI) is located and include it with their study permit application. Without a PAL, applications may be returned without processing. Some applicants and programs do not require PAL to be submitted.
  • Proof of Financial Support: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members, and return transportation.
  • No Criminal Record: Provide a police certificate to prove you have no criminal history and pose no security risk to Canada.
  • Medical Examination: Undergo a medical exam if required, to ensure you are in good health.
  • Intent to Leave Canada: Demonstrate your intention to leave Canada after your studies are complete, as required by immigration regulations.

Process

01. Initial meeting

During our initial meeting, we discuss every step of the process to ensure that everything is completed up to your standard. We will also check if you are eligible to apply for a study permit following the recent changes regarding study permits.

02. Document collection and eligibility

If you are eligible, our team of experts will help you collect all necessary documents for a successful study permit application.

03. Submission to IRCC

Once we have gathered all necessary documents we will submit your study permit application to IRCC.

04. Biometrics and medical examination

If required, you will need to submit your biometric and medical information at a designated collection center.

05. Receive decision

Final step in acquiring a study permit is receiving a decision from IRCC. 

Frequently Asked Questions

No. You must first receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

The LOA confirms your enrollment and is a mandatory part of your study permit application. Without it, your application will not be accepted by IRCC.

Not necessarily. While the study permit application can be complex and overwhelming, our team at DavyLaw is dedicated to guiding you through each step, simplifying the experience, and maximizing the potential for a prompt approval.

If your course or program lasts six months or less, you do not need a study permit. However, obtaining a study permit can be beneficial if you plan to continue your studies or work on campus during your stay.

A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. You must have a letter of acceptance from a DLI to apply for a study permit.

Review the list of DLIs here. 

To qualify for a study permit, you must show that you can pay for your tuition, living expenses, and travel. This includes proof you’ve paid your first year’s tuition and that you have sufficient funds for living costs.

As of now, you must show at least CAN$20,635 for one person (excluding tuition). Starting September 1, 2025, this amount will increase to CAN$22,895.

Accepted proof includes a Canadian bank account, GIC, student loan, bank statements, proof of payment, a letter from a sponsor, or evidence of a scholarship. If your country has currency controls, you must also show that funds can be legally transferred to Canada.

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