Study Permits

To be eligible to study in Canada, you must:

• Be enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI).
  • Laurier's Designated Learning Institution number (DLI#) is O19395164307. Note: The DLI# starts with the letter O and not the number zero.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members in Canada, and return transportation costs.
• Adhere to Canadian laws, possess a clean criminal record, and provide a police certificate if it's requested.
• Maintain good health and undergo a medical examination if it's required.
• Convince an immigration officer that you will depart Canada upon the expiry of your study permit

Accelerate the processing of your study permit through the Student Direct Stream if you're a lawful resident of specific countries. If you’re a legal resident in certain countries, you may be able to get your study permit faster by applying online through the Student Direct Stream.

While studying in Canada you must:

• Make continuous progress towards the completion of your academic program.
• Adhere to any conditions stipulated on your study permit.
• Cease studying if you no longer meet the eligibility criteria.

 

Depending on your circumstances, your study permit may include conditions such as:

• Permission to work on or off-campus in Canada.
• Authorization for travel within Canada.
• A specified departure date from Canada.
• Designation of a specific Designated Learning Institution (DLI) where you can study, as listed on your permit.
  • Note: You must change your DLI in your IRCC secure account before you can study at a different DLI.
• Requirement for an immigration medical examination.

Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. The cases below are exceptions:

1. Short-term students: You don’t need a study permit if you’re coming to Canada for a program that lasts 6 months or less.
2. Family or staff of foreign representatives
3. Members of the foreign armed forces of a country designated under the Visiting Forces Act (VFA)
4. Registered Indians in Canada
5. Minor children in Canada

You might qualify to study without a study permit if you fall into either of these categories:

• You possess a valid work permit issued on or before June 7, 2023.
• You have received a letter dated on or before June 7, 2023, granting permission to work while your work permit application is under processing.
• This letter can be utilized if you're awaiting a decision on your work permit extension.

• If you have a study permit and you’re registered as a full-time student at a DLI, you may be able to work on-campus or off-campus. If you can do so, your study permit will include a condition that says you’re allowed to work while studying.
• If you don’t have a study permit, you can’t work while you’re studying in Canada. In this case, you need to apply for a work permit.

Step 1

Create an IRCC secure account if you do not have one already. You will be prompted to answer a set of questions. Ideally you would use the same account for all applications, so keep this information safe. If you can’t remember your account information, it’s possible to create a new account.

Step 2

When you have completed the questionnaire, you’ll be guided to a screen entitled "Your document checklist" that lists your required documents.

Important: In addition to this checklist generated by IRCC, you need to add any documents required by the Canadian visa office in your country.

Step 3

Get the full list of documents required by the Canadian visa office in your country:

• Go to the IRCC website and select your country/territory from the drop-down menu (located in the "Apply on paper" section).
• Click "Get documents" and then select "Visa office instructions" (the second link). This will launch a PDF specifying requirements from your visa office.
• Any documents required by your visa office which are not already included in your online document checklist will need to be provided along with your letter of explanation in the "client information" section, under optional documents in your document checklist.

Visa Application Centres (VACs) are private companies that have contracts with the Canadian government to provide application support services for a fee. They do not provide immigration advice or make decisions on your study permit application. Check the Visa Application Centre’s website for more information about their services.

If you will apply in person at a VAC, follow the same steps as applying on paper to create your document checklist.

You can only apply by paper application if you have a disability which prevents you from applying online or hold an identity or travel document for non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons.

To apply by paper:

1. Go to the "Apply on paper" section of the IRCC website.
2. Select your country/territory from the drop-down menu and click “Get documents”.
3. You’ll notice a list of links:
   1. Click on the first link to review a general document checklist.
   2. Click on the second link to view visa office instructions for your country. These instructions include a document checklist showing additional supporting documents required by your country's visa office.
   3. The remaining links in the list will open the forms listed in the general document checklist.
4. Submit your application through a Visa Application Center (VAC) that serves your area.

Only US citizens or permanent residents, and residents of Greenland or St. Pierre and Miquelon, can apply at the border.

If you are eligible for this option, follow the same steps as applying on paper to create your document checklist and bring your completed application form and supporting documents with you.

Be sure to check if you need medical exam, custodianship, or biometrics in advance.

The information below explains the different areas of IRCC forms and definitions of terms.

UCI: This stands for unique client identifier, which is also knows as the client ID. It is an eight-digit number that appears on your study permit (and work permit, if you have one).

DLI: This stands for Designed Learning Institute. Laurier is a DLI and our DLI number is O19395164307 (Note: the number starts with the letter O and not the number zero). You may be asked by IRCC to provide this number when you apply for a permit or a visa.

Document number: This appears on official immigration documents, like study permits. It is usually printed in black with a letter (an F indicates a study permit) followed by a nine-digit number.

Duration of expected study: When filling in this section, write the current date in the “from” field, and write the expected completion date of your studies in the “to” field. You can add 90 days to the expected completion date, as you can remain in Canada for 90 days after completing your study. You are also able to apply for your post-graduation work permit during the 90 days after your studies are complete.

Employment section: If you don’t have a job, you can write “student” under Current Activity/Occupation.

Question 2(c) - Background Information: If you have applied for a study permit, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or a work permit, you must report this to IRCC. Check the Yes box next to each document you have applied for, and list when you applied for each document in the box provided.

Laurier will provide you with a letter of acceptance (LOA). Include the original or electronic copy of your letter with your study permit application.

Conditional Acceptance and Prerequisite Courses

If you have been conditionally accepted, you are obligated to undertake prerequisite courses. These may include English as a Second Language or French as a Second Language courses. Completion of these prerequisites is mandatory before commencing your primary study program.

In such instances, your study permit will only be issued for the duration of these courses plus one year. Upon acceptance into your primary program, you’ll need to apply for a new student permit to extend your stay as a student.

As of Jan 22, 2024, study permit applications outside Canada require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). You are exempt form a PAL if your are a masters or doctoral student or if you are currently studying at a Canadian high school, in Canada, and have a valid study permit.

If you have received an offer to attend Laurier and need a PAL, such as you are a newly admitted undergraduate student outside Canada, you can get a PAL from Laurier. 

How to get a PAL:

To get your PAL from Laurier, you must:

1. Accept your offer of admission to an undergraduate program at Laurier.
2. Pay your tuition deposit.

Once we receive confirmation that you have accepted your offer and paid your tuition deposit, we will begin the process for issuing you a PAL.

After you accept your offer, pay your tuition deposit, and receive a tuition deposit receipt from Laurier, you can expect a wait time of 7-10 business days. When your PAL is ready, it will be available in your Applicant Portal.

If you haven't received your PAL after 10 days from receiving your tuition deposit receipt, please contact us at chooselaurier@wlu.ca to check the on the status of your letter.

When your PAL is ready, it will be available in your Applicant Portal. After you receive your PAL, you will need to upload it in your document checklist as part of your study permit application.

Who doesn’t need a provincial attestation letter:

• Study permit: Get the right documents - Canada.ca

When applying for your study permit, you and each family member who comes with you to Canada must have:

• a valid passport or travel document
  • Online applicants: Upload a copy of the information page of your passport when you apply online. If you’re approved, you must send IRCC your original passport.
• Citizens of the United States have some options on the identification documents they can carry.
  • Lawful permanent residents of the United States must travel with a valid green card (or equivalent official proof of status in the U.S.) and a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent document).

It is essential to demonstrate your ability to financially support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay in Canada.

You can verify your financial capacity with the following methods:

• proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you’ve transferred money to Canada
• a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• Evidence of a student or educational loan granted by a bank.
• Your bank statements covering the previous four months.
• A bank draft convertible to Canadian currency.
• Verification of tuition and accommodation fee payments.
• Correspondence from the individual or institution providing financial support.
• Confirmation of funding sourced within Canada, applicable for scholarships or participation in domestically funded educational initiatives.

Minimum funds needed to support yourself as a student (and family members who come with you) as of January 01, 2024:

Table listing minimum funds needed to support yourself as a student (and family members who come with you) as of January 1, 2024.

Number of family members (including the applicant)	Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition)
1	CAN$20,635
2	CAN$25,690
3	CAN$31,583
4	CAN$38,346
5	CAN$43,492
6	CAN$49,051
7	CAN$54,611
If more than 7 people, each additional family member	CAN$5,559

 

Drafting a letter of explanation serves as an effective method to delineate supplementary factors or enclose additional documentation bolstering your application. It is pivotal to furnish an explanation and accompanying documents illustrating to the officer your strong ties to your home country and your commitment to departing Canada before the expiration of your authorized stay. Refer to the following guideline for insights on composing a letter of explanation.

Your letter of explanation may include:

• Matters you wish to clarify or information that could be beneficial for the officer's consideration.
• Supporting documentation, screenshots, or any corroborative evidence substantiating your explanation.
• Further details of your employment history in the event of space constraints on the application form.
• Additional documents mandated by your visa office that have not been provided elsewhere in your application.
• Your status in the country from which you are applying, particularly if it differs from your country of citizenship.

Ensure to upload this document under "Client Information" within the Optional Documents section of your online checklist.

To address the purpose of your studies, write a detailed study plan that is concise, clear and genuine (see template below). This may be required by your visa office and could include specific points to address.

Upload this document under "Client Information" in the Optional Documents section of your online checklist if applying online.

Guidance on Drafting a Study Plan

When applying for a study permit, you may be asked to compose a "Study Plan" detailing your reasons for choosing to study in Canada, even if it is not explicitly requested. Below are the key points to address when drafting your study plan. You should prepare a concise study plan, limited to one page, which addresses the following questions and incorporates any additional pertinent information crucial for the processing of your application.

1. Motivation for Studying in Canada:
   • Articulate the rationale behind your desire to pursue studies in Canada.
   • Elaborate on what specifically draws you to study in Canada and what distinguishes it as an ideal destination for your academic pursuits.
   • Highlight Canada's renowned education system, recognized globally for its quality standards.
   • Emphasize your eagerness to immerse yourself in Canada's multicultural society and embrace its diverse culture.
   • If applicable, underscore the significance of international education based on any prior experiences studying abroad.
2. Educational Objectives:
   • Outline your overarching educational objectives, encompassing academic, professional, and personal aspirations.
   • Specify your chosen field of study and elucidate the rationale behind your selection.
   • Describe how furthering your education aligns with your career trajectory in your home country.
   • Conduct research on prospective post-graduation employment opportunities and how your educational pursuits in Canada will facilitate your career advancement.
3. Distinctiveness of Canadian Program:
   •  Justify your decision to pursue studies in Canada rather than in your country of residence or citizenship.
   • Highlight any disparities between educational offerings in your home country and Canada, emphasizing how the Canadian program aligns with your learning preferences and career aspirations.
   • Provide evidence of your research into program availability in your home country and articulate why the Canadian program is the optimal choice for you.
4. Impact on Employment Opportunities:
   • Discuss the job prospects you have explored in your home country and identify any educational gaps hindering your eligibility for desired positions.
   • Illustrate how pursuing education in Canada will equip you with the requisite skills and qualifications to secure employment upon your return.
   • Articulate your strategy for leveraging your Canadian education to enhance your employability in your home country, addressing any specific job opportunities you aspire to pursue.
5. Ties to Home Country:
   • Demonstrate your ties to your country of residence or citizenship, crucial for establishing your intent to return post-study.
   • Disclose familial connections, financial investments, or employment commitments tethering you to your home country.
   • Provide comprehensive details of your educational background, including all schools attended and relevant academic achievements.
   • Offer insights into your work history, highlighting any experiences that may contribute to your academic endeavors.

Conclude your study plan by summarizing your educational aspirations and expressing gratitude for the opportunity

You require a medical exam when applying for a study permit if you:

• If you have resided in a designated country or territory for more than six months within the past year, excluding Canada, this requirement applies to you. However, if you have spent more than six months in Canada during the past year, this requirement does not apply to you.
• If you intend to work in certain jobs in Canada that involve close contact with individuals, such as roles in elementary schools, hospitals, or if you are a medical student.

If either of the above situations applies to you, you must undergo a medical examination conducted by a Panel Physician approved by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The physician will automatically forward the comprehensive results to IRCC. Ensure to request a copy of your medical examination report (referred to as your "e-medical") from the physician, which you must upload to your document checklist.

You have two options:

• Opt for an upfront medical examination before submitting your initial study permit application, including your e-medical report. This option is recommended as it streamlines the process and saves time.
• Alternatively, apply for your study permit first and await a medical examination request from a visa officer. However, note that this may prolong the processing of your application. Upon receiving the request, provide the medical examination results within 30 days.

Medical examinations are valid for 12 months and must remain valid upon your entry into Canada. If you plan to travel to Canada more than 12 months after your medical examination, you will need to undergo a new one before traveling.

Find out who needs a medical exam.

If the student is minor and requires a custodian, you must include the following form with your application:

Custodianship Declaration form (PDF, 1.02 MB) (download PDF to view).

This form comprises two pages, both of which must be notarized (certified by a notary) and subsequently submitted with your study permit application.

The custodian residing in Canada must sign the first page, while the parents or legal guardians of the minor child in the child’s home country must sign the second page.

Schedule your biometrics collection appointment promptly to prevent processing delays. 

Find out how to give biometrics.

IRCC will review your application to ensure that all required documents are included. If it is incomplete, they may return it without processing or request the missing documents. Additionally, following can be requested:

• Attend an interview with our officials in your country, or
• Provide further information.

You may also be asked to undergo:

• A medical examination (if necessary), or
• Obtain a police certificate (if necessary).

Missing Documents

If you were unable to submit all the necessary documents with your application, you can provide the missing documents through the following options:

• IRCC secure online account or IRCC web form.

Keep Your Application Up to Date

In the event of a change in your residence or contact details such as address, telephone number, or any other information after your application submission, it is important that you provide an update to IRCC through the following link:

Update your application

A new approach has been implemented by IRCC for monitoring the status of your application. Use the following link:

Application status tracker(opens in a new tab) to get updates about your application. To create an account, you need your: unique client identifier (UCI) and application number.

If your application is approved, IRCC will send you a Letter of Introduction via email. It's essential to print and present this letter to the border services officer upon your entry into Canada. The border services officer will then issue your study permit, typically in the form of a paper document.

Please refrain from booking your travel until you have received your Letter of Introduction. Alternatively, if you must book travel in advance, ensure that your arrangements are flexible and can be changed or refunded if necessary.

Please see below the sample of Letter of Introduction:

Please make sure you have the following documents in your possession before you come to Canada:

• A valid passport
• The letter of introduction the visa office sent you when they approved your study permit
• A copy of a valid letter of acceptance from your school
• Proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
• Letters of reference or any other documents the visa office told you to bring and
• Either a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visitor visa (temporary resident visa)
• Verification of Enrolment downloaded from LORIS.

Wondering if you need a visa to enter Canada?

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may require either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. If necessary, IRCC will issue the TRV or eTA once your study permit is approved.

Obtaining your TRV

Typically, once your study permit is approved, IRCC will reach out to you requesting your passport. Subsequently, you will be required to forward your passport to either your visa office or a Visa Application Centre (VAC). They will then affix your TRV (a sticker) onto a page within your passport.

Obtaining your eTA

Upon approval of your study permit, IRCC will automatically include your eTA number in your Letter of Introduction. No further action is needed from your end. You can verify the status of your eTA online.

check your eTA status online

For US Residents

For lawful permanent residents of the United States, it is important to carry a valid green card (or equivalent official proof of status in the U.S.) along with a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent document).

In the event of your application being refused, you will receive a letter from IRCC in your IRCC secure account detailing the reasons for the refusal.

Your application may be declined if you fail to provide:

• A valid letter of acceptance and or Provincial Letter of Attestation.
• Evidence demonstrating your financial capacity to sustain yourself during your studies in Canada.
• Successful completion of a required medical examination, if applicable.
• Persuasive evidence to the visa officer that your primary intention in Canada is for educational purposes.
• Convincing evidence to the visa officer that you will depart Canada upon completion of your study period.

You can resubmit your study permit application, but you must address the reasons why it was rejected.

If you have questions about this process, the International Student Advisors at International Student Support might be able to help. Email us at laurierinternational@wlu.ca.

Ensure that you obtain your study permit upon your initial entry into Canada at the airport. 

Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Complete the electronic Primary Inspection Kiosk questionnaire
   • You must declare any currency equal to or exceeding CAD$10,000 and/or any food, plant, or animal products.
2. Present your kiosk receipt to an officer.
   • Inform them of your need for a study permit, and they will guide you to the immigration area.
3. Retrieve your checked luggage, if applicable.
4. Proceed to immigration and present your Letter of Introduction.
5. Verify the details on your study permit before leaving the officer's desk.
   • Confirm that all personal information and conditions are accurate. If any discrepancies are noted, promptly inform the officer. To avoid delays in commencing employment, ensure that your study permit includes at least one of the following conditions:
     • May accept employment on the campus of the institution at which registered in full-time studies.
     • May work 20 hrs off-campus or full-time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in section 186(v) of IRPR.
     • May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria as per R186(f), (v) or (w). Must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.