Student Visa and Study Permit in Canada

Get all the information you need to help your students get Visa and admission and settle in Canada

Student Visa and Study Permit in Canda

Get all the information you need to help your students get Visa and admission and settle in Canada

Canada

Canada has a lot to offer other than quality education.

Known also for its multiculturalism and history of welcoming immigrants from around the world.

This diversity is reflected in its vibrant cities, which offer a range of cultural events, festivals, and cuisines. And with a low crime rate and a focus on social welfare, Canada is a safe and welcoming place to live and study.

Why should you study in Canada?

  • High-quality education system: Canada is known for its top-notch education system, with many of its universities and colleges ranking among the best in the world. You can be confident that you will receive a high-quality education when you study in Canada.
  • Diverse culture: Canada is a diverse and welcoming country, with a rich history and a multicultural population. This diversity is reflected in the country’s vibrant cities, which offer a range of cultural events, festivals, and cuisines.
  • Natural beauty: With its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, Canada is a great place to enjoy nature and pursue outdoor hobbies. From the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, Canada offers a range of natural beauty to explore.
  • Strong economy: Canada has a strong economy and a high standard of living, making it a great place to live and work after graduation. The country also has a low crime rate and a focus on social welfare, making it a safe and welcoming place to live.
  • Welcoming atmosphere: Canada is known for its welcoming atmosphere and history of welcoming immigrants from around the world. As an international student, you can expect to be embraced by the community and feel at home while studying in Canada.

Some required documents to apply for an undergraduate (BSc) degree:

  • Your current passport or other valid travel documentation
  • Your WAEC/NECO result

Some required documents to apply for a postgraduate (MSc & Ph.D.) degree:

  • BSc. Transcripts
  • Recommendation letters
  • Personal Statement of Purpose
  • Your current passport or other valid travel documentation

To apply for a study permit (visa) to study in Canada, you will need to provide the following documents:

  1. A valid passport or travel document: You will need to provide a copy of the personal information page of your passport or travel document. This must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from Canada.
  2. Proof of acceptance: You will need to provide a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. This letter must be on the DLI’s letterhead and include the DLI’s designation number, your name, and the program you will be studying.
  3. Proof of financial support: You will need to provide proof that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or a letter of support from someone who will be financially responsible for you.
  4. A letter of explanation: You may be asked to provide a letter explaining your reasons for studying in Canada, your educational and work history, and your plans after you complete your studies.
  5. A police certificate: Depending on your country of citizenship and the length of time you have spent in other countries, you may be required to provide a police certificate from each country you have lived in for six months or more in the past 10 years.
  6. Medical examination: Depending on the length of time you will be spending in Canada, you may be required to undergo a medical examination.

It is important to note that this is just a general list and the specific documents you will need to provide may vary depending on your individual circumstances.

Vital steps to take when applying for your visa

  1. Choose a program and institution: One of the first steps in studying in Canada is to choose a program and institution that meets your academic and career goals. Canada has a wide range of universities, colleges, and technical schools that offer a variety of programs at different levels of study. You can choose to study at a research-intensive university, a smaller liberal arts college, or a technical school that focuses on hands-on learning.
  2. Obtain a study permit: International students in Canada must have a valid study permit in order to study in the country. To obtain a study permit, you will need to apply online or at a Canadian visa office in your home country. You will need to provide proof of acceptance to a recognized institution, evidence of financial support, and a valid passport. It’s important to start the process early, as it can take several months to receive your study permit.
  3. Find housing: Once you have been accepted to an institution and obtained your study permit, you will need to start looking for housing. Many universities and colleges offer on-campus housing options for students, which can be a convenient and budget-friendly option. If you prefer to live off-campus, you can search for apartments or rooms for rent in the surrounding area. It’s important to start your housing search early, as availability can be limited in some areas.
  4. Get health insurance: International students in Canada are required to have health insurance coverage while studying in the country. You can choose to purchase a private health insurance plan or enroll in the provincial health insurance plan, depending on your situation. It’s important to have health insurance to protect yourself in case of illness or injury while studying in Canada.
  5. Prepare for the culture: Canada is a diverse and welcoming country, but it’s still a good idea to prepare for cultural differences before you arrive. Research the customs and norms of the region where you will be studying, and consider taking a language course if you are not fluent in English or French. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with Canadian currency, the metric system, and the country’s social and political climate.
  6. Know your rights and responsibilities: As an international student in Canada, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. You have the right to a safe and welcoming learning environment, and you also have the responsibility to follow the rules and regulations of your institution and the country. Make sure you are aware of any academic or conduct policies that you are expected to follow, and seek help if you have any concerns or questions.

Required Documents

All documents must be translated to English.
Please check full list of documents according to your country on this website. 

– Valid passport (scan copy of main page);
– Passport sized photo;
– Proof of acceptance – LOA;
– Letter of motivation (This letter helps the visa officer to understand you and your goals. It
explains your motivation to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities
as a student. You should include this letter if you decide to apply for a study permit, even if
you don’t have to get a study permit for your program);
– Custodian declaration (minor children). The custodian in Canada must sign the first page,
and the parents or legal guardians of the minor child in the child’s home country must sign
the second page;
– Scan copy of birth certificate

– Proof of financial support:

  • Proof of a student or education loan from a bank
  • your bank statements for the past 4-6 months
  • a bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
  • proof of paid tuition and housing fees
  • a letter from the person or school providing you money or proof of funding paid within
    Canada
  • funded educational program (if you have a scholarship)
  • proof of a bank account under your name, if you’ve transferred money to Canada
  • sponsor employment letter signed by employer (on company’s official letterhead,
    indicating the salary, position, hours of work)
  • police certificate.

How to Apply

Please find more information here

  • create individual student’s account
  • upload all documents
  • pay fees online by credit card (235 CAD)

After you apply:

  • Give biometrics in VAC center in your country
  • medical check (extra fee is approximately 220 USD)

After your application was approved:

  • send your passport through VAC center

You’ll get your study permit

  • at the port of entry when you arrive in Canada, or
  • mailed to you, if you’re already in Canada