Study Permits

Navigate Canada's Study Permit Requirements with Confidence

A Canadian study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It serves as your authorization to pursue education in Canada and, in many cases, opens pathways to work experience and permanent residence.

The study permit application process has become increasingly complex due to recent policy changes that have introduced more stringent requirements and documentation standards. Whether you're applying for your first study permit, extending your current authorization, or transitioning to post-graduation work status, understanding these requirements is critical to your success.

At Fireweed Immigration, we help students navigate the evolving study permit landscape with accurate, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Who Are Study Permit Services For?

Our services support a range of clients, including:

• Prospective international students applying for their first Canadian study permit

• Current students in Canada who need guidance on maintaining status or extending their permits

• Recent graduates planning to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• Students facing complications such as changing programs, schools, or levels of study

• Families where dependents need study permits or travel documents

• Students affected by policy changes who need clarification on new requirements

What is a Study Permit?

A Canadian study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It serves as your authorization to pursue education in Canada and, in many cases, opens pathways to work experience and permanent residence.

The study permit application process has become increasingly complex due to recent policy changes that have introduced more stringent requirements and documentation standards. Whether you're applying for your first study permit, extending your current authorization, or transitioning to post-graduation work status, understanding these requirements is critical to your success.

At Fireweed Immigration, we help students navigate the evolving study permit landscape with accurate, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Common Study Permit Scenarios

Initial Study Permit Applications

You've been accepted to a Canadian institution and need to apply for your first study permit. We guide you through documentation requirements, financial proof, and the application process to ensure you meet current IRCC standards.

Study Permit Extensions

Your current study permit is expiring and you need to extend your authorization. We help you maintain legal status while continuing your education.

You've completed your program and want to gain Canadian work experience. PGWP applications have specific timing and eligibility requirements—we ensure you apply correctly and on time.

Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)

Status Complications

You've changed programs, transferred schools, or are taking a leave of absence. We advise you on how these changes affect your immigration status and what steps you need to take.

Study Permit Refusals or Previous Issues

You've received a refusal or have concerns about your immigration history. We review your situation and provide strategic advice for moving forward.

How we can Help

Eligibility

To qualify for a study permit, you generally must:

• Have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI)

• Prove you have sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation

• Be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record (may require a police certificate)

• Be in good health (may require a medical examination)

• Satisfy the visa officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay

• Meet any additional requirements specific to your country of residence
  

Important: Recent policy changes have made eligibility requirements more stringent. Requirements vary based on your country of origin, level of study, and institution. A personalized assessment is essential to understand your specific situation.

• Valid passport

• Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)

• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor documentation)

• Photographs meeting IRCC specifications

• Proof of payment for tuition and fees

• Statement of purpose or study plan

• Language test results (if required by your institution)

• Academic transcripts and diplomas

• Police certificates (depending on country of residence and time spent there)

• Medical examination results (if required)

• Any additional documents specific to your country or situation

Required Documents

While every case is unique, study permit applications typically require:

Processing Times

Study permit processing times vary significantly depending on:

• Your country of residence

• Time of year (application volumes are highest before fall semester)

• Completeness of your application

• Whether additional screening is required

Current processing times range from a few weeks to several months. We recommend applying as early as possible—ideally 3-4 months before your program start date.

Note: Processing times are set by IRCC and subject to change. We monitor your application and provide updates throughout the process.

Post-Graduate Work Permits

We help you:

• Assess your PGWP eligibility based on your program and institution

• Navigate the specific timing requirements (apply within 180 days of graduation)

• Prepare your PGWP application accurately

• Maximize the duration of your work permit based on program length

• Understand how PGWP work experience can lead to permanent residence

PGWP is time-sensitive. Contact us as soon as you graduate or receive notification of program completion.

Transition from Study to Work

If you've completed a program of study at a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI), you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. This open work permit allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience and is often a stepping stone to permanent residence.

Study Permit FAQs

Can I work while on a study permit?

Most full-time students at designated learning institutions can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Specific conditions apply, and recent policy changes have affected work eligibility. We can clarify your specific work authorization during a consultation.

What happens if my study permit expires while I'm still studying?

If your permit expires, you must either leave Canada or apply to restore your status within 90 days. Maintaining valid status is crucial. We help students plan ahead to avoid status complications.

Can I change schools or programs on my study permit?

You can change institutions or programs, but you must meet certain conditions and may need to notify IRCC. Some changes affect your permit conditions or future eligibility for programs like PGWP. We advise you on the implications of any changes.

Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit, and your dependent children may need study permits or visitor status. Family immigration adds complexity to your planning—we can help you understand your options.

What if I want to bring my family to Canada?

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

A PGWP allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable Canadian work experience. Eligibility, duration, and application timing are specific and must be carefully managed. We guide graduates through this critical application.

Whether you're applying for your first study permit, need advice on maintaining your status, or are planning your post-graduation work permit, we're here to help.

Email

info@fireweedimmigration.ca

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