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Visa

Student/Work Visas in Canada

How to Obtain a Student Visa and Study Permit?

​If you're considering studying in Canada for over six months, obtaining a Canadian Study Permit is essential.

As soon as you receive the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College, you should apply for a student visa without delay.

To qualify for a Canadian Student Visa, prospective students must:

  • ​Obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College to initiate your student visa application.

  • Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located, unless the student qualifies for an exemption.

  • Provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country.

  • Acquire a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if intending to study in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec.

  • 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.

  • Be in good health. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request an applicant to complete a medical examination.

  • Demonstrate to the immigration officer that he/she will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay granted by the student visa.

  • The applicant may also be required to submit any additional documents requested by specific visa offices.

 

Note:

  • 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.

  • You will enter Canada on a Student Visa, and upon arrival at the port of entry, you will be issued a Study Permit.​​

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How  to Work in Canada as an International Student

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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.

 

Eligibility criteria to work off-campus

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In order to be eligible to work off-campus during his/her studies, an international student must:

  • hold a valid study permit;

  • be studying full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI);

  • have started studying and remain in satisfactory academic standing as determined by their institution;

  • be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that is at least six months in duration and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate; and

  • have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

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. 

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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.​

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Studying and working in Canada are major advantages
when it comes to obtaining Canadian Permanent Residence

StudentVisa24

We Offer Comprehensive Support for
Your Immigration Needs

Working with us you get a free or low-cost immigration services for preparing, reviewing, and submitting your study permit application.

You will receive an expert guidance and legal support from trusted Canadian immigration lawyers who will assist you throughout the application process, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.

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