What are your immigration options?
From choosing the right program to securing permanent residence, an immigration assessment can map your complete pathway to Canadian success.
Study Permit
Authorization to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. Many study permit holders later qualify for work permits and permanent residence.
Studying in Canada
A study permit allows you to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Most international students need a study permit for programs longer than 6 months.
Study permits are temporary and typically valid for the duration of your program plus 90 days.
Key benefits
Processing time:
4-20 weeks (varies by country)
Study Permit Requirements
To qualify for a study permit, you must:
Some students may need a temporary resident visa (visitor visa) in addition to their study permit.
Working as a Student
Most full-time students can work while studying without a work permit.
On-Campus Work
- Work unlimited hours on campus
- At the institution where you're enrolled
- No work permit needed
Off-Campus Work
- Work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions
- Work full-time during scheduled breaks
- Must be enrolled full-time at a DLI
- Must have a valid study permit that says you can work off-campus
Co-op/Internship Work
- If your program requires work experience
- Need a co-op work permit in addition to study permit
- Work must be essential to program completion
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your studies at an eligible institution, you may qualify for an open work permit.
PGWP Eligibility:
- Graduated from eligible DLI
- Program was at least 8 months long
- Studied full-time in Canada
- Apply within 180 days of receiving notification that you completed your program
PGWP Validity:
- 8-month to less than 2-year program: Work permit up to program length
- 2-year program or longer: 3-year work permit
Important: This is a one-time permit. You cannot apply for another PGWP after your first one expires.
PGWP Benefits:
Gain Canadian work experience • Qualify for Canadian Experience Class • Improve Express Entry CRS score • Potential pathway to permanent residence
Gain Canadian work experience • Qualify for Canadian Experience Class • Improve Express Entry CRS score • Potential pathway to permanent residence
Study Permit to Permanent Residence
Many international students use their Canadian education and post-graduation work experience as a pathway to permanent residence.
Common Routes:
Canadian Experience Class
- 1 year skilled Canadian work experience
- Language proficiency
- Apply through Express Entry
Provincial Nominee Programs
- International graduate streams in most provinces
- Some don't require work experience
- Often easier than federal programs
Quebec Experience Program
- For graduates of Quebec institutions
- Quebec-specific pathway
Typical Timeline:
1
Study Permit: 2 - 4 years
2
PGWP: Up to 3 years
3
Work and gain Canadian experience: 1 - 2 years
4
Apply for permanent
residence
Total Timeline: 3 - 7 years from arrival
Bringing Family Members
Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit while you study.
Your dependent children can:
- Accompany you to Canada
- Attend primary or secondary school without a study permit
- May need study permit for post-secondary education
Family members must apply for their own permits and meet admissibility requirements.
Maintaining Your Status
To maintain your study permit status:
- Make academic progress toward completing your program
- Notify IRCC of any changes (DLI, program, address)
- Ensure permit remains valid (apply for extension if needed)
- Leave Canada when permit expires (unless you have other status)
- Comply with permit conditions
Extensions:
Apply at least 30 days before your permit expires if you need more time to complete your studies.