Before you can apply for a Study Permit, you must have been accepted at a recognized school, university or college in Canada.

To be eligible to study in Canada:

• You must have been accepted by a Canadian educational institution.
• You must prove that you have enough money to pay for:
• Tuition fees
• Living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members
• Return transportation
• No criminal record (may require police certificate)
• Good health (may require medical examination)
• Prove you will leave Canada after your studies

Exceptions

You do not need a Study Permit if your course or program is 6 months or less, but applying is still recommended in case you extend your studies.

Foreign Representatives to Canada

Family/staff of foreign representatives accredited in Canada may be exempt from a Study Permit. Contact your embassy for verification.

Temporary Resident (Visitor) Visas

If you plan to visit Canada, you must:

• Have a valid passport
• Be in good health
• Demonstrate ties to home country (job, home, family)
• Prove intent to leave Canada after your visit
• Have sufficient funds based on stay and accommodation

You may also need:

• A Temporary Resident Visa (based on nationality)
• A medical exam
• A letter of invitation from a Canadian resident

Inadmissibility

People may be inadmissible due to criminal activity, human rights violations, organized crime, or financial/health/security reasons.

Criminal Inadmissibility

Past or current criminal offences like theft, assault, DUI, etc., can prevent entry into Canada. Under-18 offences may be exempt.

Work Permits

If you want to work in Canada, here is what you need to know:

• Your employer may need to obtain an LMIA from ESDC
• Most Work Permits require a favorable LMIA first
• You must meet visa and permit requirements to enter/stay
• A Work Permit does not grant permanent residency

Eligibility to apply for Work Permit from outside of Canada:

• A job offer with a positive LMIA
• Completed application meeting all IRPA requirements

Some roles may not require an LMIA.

You must also:

• Show intent to leave after permit expires
• Prove financial ability to support yourself and family
• Have no criminal background
• Be in good health (may need a medical exam)

Eligibility to apply for Work Permit at the port of entry

• You are from the U.S., Greenland, or Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
• No medical exam required or already completed
• Don’t need a Temporary Resident Visa and job doesn’t need LMIA
• Or you already have a positive LMIA