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Student/Work Visas in Canada
Applying for Your Canadian Student Visa
Information about Canadian student visas/study permits can be found
on the official website of the Government of Canada
To qualify for a Canadian Student Visa, prospective students must:
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​Obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College to initiate your student visa application.
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Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located, unless the student qualifies for an exemption.
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Provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country.
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Acquire a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if intending to study in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec.
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Maintain a clear criminal record, as applicants with a history of criminal activity or those deemed a security risk may be. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request a police clearance certificate.
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Be in good health. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request an applicant to complete a medical examination.
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Demonstrate to the immigration officer that he/she will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay granted by the student visa.
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The applicant may also be required to submit any additional documents requested by specific visa offices.
Note:
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Student visa processing times can vary, and you may experience delays, particularly during busy times such as the summer months. Check processing times at IRCC.
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You will enter Canada on a Student Visa, and upon arrival at the port of entry, you will be issued a Study Permit.​​
Stay Updated with IRCC’s News
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As of April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary international students no longer need a separate work permit to participate in student work placements required by their program, such as co-op placements and internships. Students may work for employers approved by their designated learning institution as part of their program requirements. International students with pending decisions on their co-op work permit applications will not need to take any action. IRCC will withdraw all eligible and active co-op work permit applications. The full eligibility criteria are available on IRCC website.
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Faster processing for doctoral students: Get your application processed in 2 weeks if you’re a doctoral student. Apply with your family: Your family can apply to come to Canada with you.
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Since January 1, 2026, students planning to attend a graduate program in a public institution no longer need a a provincial or territorial attestation letter when applying for a study permit. Further details are available on IRCC website.
The information on this page is current at the time of publication and is subject to change.
Last updated on April 9, 2026.
How to Work in Canada as an International Student
International Students: Gain Work Experience while Studying
One of the major advantages of studying in Canada is that international students with a valid Canadian Study Permit may be eligible to work (up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays or spring break) for an employer outside the campus of the educational institution where he/she is registered.
International Students: Gain Work Experience after Graduation
After completing your studies in Canada, you have the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience by applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit may enable you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on your program.
Your Path to Canadian Permanent Residence
The work experience you accumulate during your PGWP can greatly enhance your chances of applying for Canadian Permanent Residence, especially through the Canadian Experience Class and certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
Studying and working in Canada are major advantages
when it comes to obtaining Canadian Permanent Residence
Types of Canadian Work Permits
Canada offers three primary work permit programs:
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Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) Once you've finished your education in Canada, you can acquire Canadian work experience applying for a Post-Graduation Permit (PGWP). Depending on your academic program, this permit may allow to work in for up to three years. The experience you gain while on a PGWP can be beneficial for your application for Canadian Permanent Residence, particularly through the Canadian Experience Class and specific Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
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Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) This program necessitates a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for foreign seeking a work permit. The LMIA helps employers prove to the Canadian government that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely impact the local workforce. The federal department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) ensures that the employment of foreign workers does not displace Canadian workers or drive down their wages.
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International Mobility Program (IMP)
This program allows foreign nationals to obtain a work permit without the need for an LMIA.
If you already have good qualifications, work recommendations, relevant experience, and strong English or French language skills, we suggest visiting www.indeed.ca, www.workopolis.com, and even LinkedIn to explore job opportunities in Canada.
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Look for companies that align with your career goals, and if they’re interested in your profile, they may invite you for an interview and help with the necessary work visa process.
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If your goal is to work in Canada, one of the easiest pathways is completing education in Canada, as this can make you eligible for a post-graduate work permit.
