Visa support Canada
Study permit support for studying in Canada
Are you thinking about studying abroad in Canada? You will likely need to get a study permit so that you can attend university and earn your degree.
Steps to getting a study permit
Getting a Canadian study permit
- As part of the international student cap currently in place in Canada, if you apply for a study permit, you may need to include a provincial attestation letter (PAL) with your application.
- You will need a PAL if you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree. However, you will not need a PAL if you’re applying for a master’s degree.
- The University of Victoria (UVic) and the University of Alberta have a PAL process in place. To learn more about how PALs work at UVic and the University of Alberta, speak with your education counsellor or contact us.
Study permit advice
If you have an education agent, they can advise you on how to get started with the study permit application process. If you don’t have an agent, please get in touch with us, and we will be happy to help.
Any other questions?
How much money do I need to show that I have?
You currently need to show that you have CAN$20,635 to cover your costs in additional to being able to pay for the first year of your tuition and your travel costs.
You only need to show that you have CAN$20,635 to cover your living costs for the first year of your degree.
This amount is linked to the cost of living in Canada, so it will change each year.
Who can sponsor my studies in Canada?
A qualified financial sponsor with a strong financial background may be able to pay for your studies. This sponsor could be your own government, an organisation or another entity. It could even be a family member or relative.
How long does processing a study permit application take?
The processing time for study permits is approximately 10 weeks. However, the processing time will not start until you supply your biometric information. You will usually have to supply this information after applying for you study permit and paying your application and biometric fees. You will then get a biometric instruction letter (BIL) telling you where you need to go to give your biometric information. You should book your appointment to do this as soon as possible so that your application can be processed.
