Study in Canada

Study permit (official Canadian immigration category; requires acceptance to a designated learning institution and a provincial attestation letter)

Varies depending on your country of residence and the applicable application circumstances. Check current IRCC processing times.

You must prove you have enough money to support yourself and any family members without working in Canada. Budget a minimum of CAD $23,000 per year for living costs.

CAD 150 study permit application fee (verify current fee on the IRCC website)

Most eligible international students may work on campus or off campus while studying without a separate work permit, subject to current IRCC eligibility requirements and work-hour rules. Verify the current eligibility criteria and weekly hour limit from IRCC before basing financial plans on part-time employment. As of April 1, 2026, you no longer need a separate co-op work permit for eligible student work placements.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): graduates from eligible post-secondary programmes can get work experience in Canada. The length depends on the level and duration of the study programme and the passport expiry date. Master's degree graduates from programmes of at least 8 months may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP. Language requirements (CLB 7 university / CLB 5 college) and field-of-study requirements apply to non-degree graduates. Graduates from public-private curriculum-licensing arrangements are not eligible. Work experience gained through the PGWP may support applications for permanent residency through programmes such as Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program.