The steps to obtain a study permit in Canada

Obtaining a study permit in Canada requires following several key steps. First, it is imperative to have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, which is the first piece of your application.

Next, you need to gather the necessary documents, including the provincial attestation letter (LAP) if you are not applying for a master's or doctoral program. This LAP is crucial to prove your admission to a Canadian province.

Another essential aspect is proof of funds. You must demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. In 2026, this corresponds to a minimum of 20,635 CAD for living expenses, in addition to your tuition fees.

Once these documents are gathered, it is time to submit your application. The application fee is 150 CAD, and you will also need to pay 85 CAD for biometric data. Processing can take between 4 and 16 weeks, depending on your country of origin.

It is important to regularly check the status of your application. If you need to change institutions, be aware that this requires a new study permit application.

A common pitfall is not allowing enough time to gather all the necessary documents. Start your application as early as possible to avoid last-minute complications.

Finally, once your study permit is approved, you will have the opportunity to work part-time during your studies, which can help you finance your stay in Canada.