Canada Student Visa Requirements for International Applicants

By Visa Jobs CanadaSeptember 2, 2025September 2, 2025International Students & Graduatescanada student visa, Canadian education, immigration requirements, international students, study permits

Canada is an incredibly popular destination for international students, thanks to its top-notch educational institutions like the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management and UBC Sauder School of Business, both highly ranked globally. If you’re considering studying here, you’re making a wonderful choice!

So, what do you need to secure a student visa, or study permit, to attend university in Canada? Let’s break down the essentials, from required documents to costs and processing times, to help you navigate the process.

What Do You Need for a Canadian Study Permit?

Applying for a Canadian study permit requires several key documents:

A valid passport that covers your entire stay in Canada.
Two recent passport-style photos.
A letter of acceptance from your chosen program.
A Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), if applicable, to confirm approval from the province where your university is located.
Proof of funds: As of 2024, you’ll need to show you have at least $CAN 20,635 to cover your first year’s tuition, travel, and living expenses. This can include proof of accommodation payments, educational loans, or bank statements.

There might be a few additional requirements, such as:

A letter explaining your reasons for studying in Canada and your responsibilities as a student.
A medical exam certificate if you plan to stay longer than six months or have been in specific countries.
A police certificate to confirm your criminal record status.

How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a Study Permit?

The application fee for a study permit is a flat $CAN 150 (around $109). If you need to submit biometric data such as fingerprints and photos, that would be an additional $CAN 85 (about $60).

How Long Will it Take to Process My Application?

Processing times can vary depending on the time of year and where you’re applying from, generally averaging around six weeks. However, some applications may take up to three months. Keep in mind that approval rates have fluctuated — recently, they hovered around 60%, but dropped to just under 50% due to stricter funding rules. It’s a good idea to apply as soon as you receive your acceptance letter to avoid delays.

Can I Work While Studying in Canada?

Yes! While studying on a student visa, you can work up to 24 hours a week off-campus without needing an additional work permit. Just remember, you must be enrolled full-time in a program that lasts at least six months. Once your courses start, you’re free to seek part-time work. During school breaks, there are no limits on the hours you can work, provided you were a full-time student both before and after your break.

What Comes After Graduation?

If you’re thinking of staying in Canada post-graduation, you’ll be happy to know that the country is quite welcoming when it comes to work permits. As an MBA or master’s graduate, you’re eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to three years, provided your program lasted at least eight months. Here are a few key points about applying for your PGWP:

Your institution must be a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution.
You need to have maintained full-time status during your studies, although part-time is allowed in your final semester.
Apply for your PGWP within 180 days of completing your program.

Completing your PGWP is a solid step towards longer-term employment and even pursuing permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Popular pathways include the Federal Skilled Worker program or the Canadian Experience Class program.

Why Choose Canada for Your Education?

Canada continues to be a top choice for international students, with its excellent universities, straightforward visa processes, and promising job opportunities. While funding requirements have become stricter, Canada still offers attractive pathways from education to employment and residency for global talent.

In Summary

To apply for your Canada student visa, you’ll need a valid passport, a letter of acceptance, proof of funds, and other key documents. The application fee is $CAN 150, and processing can take six weeks to three months. It’s wise to apply as soon as you have your acceptance letter to ensure a smooth path ahead. After your studies, you can stay on and work for up to three years, setting you up nicely for future opportunities.