Canada · study
Canadian Study Permit
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Study permit for international students at Designated Learning Institutions, governed by provincial study attestation caps.
- Processing time
- Varies — 4–15 weeks typical.
- Government fees
- CAD 150 study permit fee; CAD 85 biometrics.
- Typical duration
- Programme length plus 90 days.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
Canadian study permits require acceptance at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) plus — since January 2024 — a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming the application counts toward the national study-permit cap.
Recent changes to this route
- Canada tightens Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility1 November 2024
IRCC introduced significant changes to PGWP eligibility, including field-of-study restrictions for most programmes and new language-test requirements.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Letter of acceptance from DLI.
- ✓PAL/TAL from the province.
- ✓Proof of funds ($20,635 for 2024 intake; verify).
- ✓Clean background.
Common blockers
- !PAL/TAL not issued (provincial caps exceeded).
- !Funds below threshold.
Typical evidence
- ·Acceptance letter and PAL.
- ·Bank statements or GIC.
- ·Police checks.
Application pathway
Accept DLI offer and obtain PAL
Institution and province both issue required letters.
Apply for study permit
IRCC online portal.
Biometrics and arrival
Collect permit at port of entry.
Transition to PGWP at graduation
Confirm programme PGWP-eligibility beforehand.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ApplyApplicantApply for study permit ↗
Students use this IRCC page to confirm PAL/TAL rules and continue to the online study permit application.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada · verified
Fees and processing time
Indicative government fees: CAD 150 study permit fee; CAD 85 biometrics.. A decision then typically takes 3 weeks – 4 months. Both change over time, so the dedicated pages below carry the itemised breakdown and the current official figures.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter for a Canadian study permit?+
Yes, for most applicants since January 2024. Exceptions exist for primary/secondary students, master's and doctoral applicants, and certain exchange students. Provinces have caps and the rules have been refined through 2024–25.
How much money do I need to show for a Canadian study permit?+
The proof-of-funds figure listed for the 2024 intake is CAD 20,635, and applicants should verify the current threshold. Funds below the threshold are a common reason study permits are refused.
How long does a Canadian study permit take to process and how much is the fee?+
Processing typically takes 4 to 15 weeks. The indicative government fees are CAD 150 for the study permit plus CAD 85 for biometrics.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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