Archive · 26 May 2025
Understanding Canadian Student Visas and Study Permits
If you want to study in Canada, you need two important papers.
Think of the student visa as your 'ticket' to get into Canada.
Once you're there, the study permit lets you stay and go to school.
You get your visa before you leave, but the study permit is given to you when you arrive.
To keep studying, you must attend classes full-time and follow the rules.
Also, a new rule means you must get your permit updated if you switch schools.
Getting both documents is crucial to avoid issues while studying.
A student visa (visitor visa/eTA) allows entry into Canada, while a study permit allows staying to study.
The student visa is issued before travel; the study permit is issued upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry.
Both documents are essential for international students to study in Canada legally.
Students must maintain their study permit by studying full-time and complying with all conditions.
Recent policy updates require students to reapply for a study permit extension when changing institutions.
- Who
- International students planning to study in Canada.
- What
- The article explains the difference between a student visa and a study permit for international students.
- When
- The student visa is needed before arriving, and the study permit is received upon arrival.
- Where
- The study permit is issued at a Canadian port of entry, like an airport.
- Why
- To study legally in Canada as an international student.
- Student Visa (Visitor Visa/eTA)
- Allows entry into Canada.
- Study Permit
- Allows staying and studying in Canada.
- Issuing of Study Permit
- At Canadian port of entry (e.g., airport).
- Requirements for maintaining Study Permit
- Full-time study and compliance with permit conditions.
- Recent update
- Students need to reapply for a permit when changing institutions.