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From Visitor Visa to Study Permit in Canada: Changing Status All You Need to Know

In most cases, you’ll need to apply for a study permit before arriving. However, if you’re already in Canada, you may be able to apply for a study permit through two methods.

  • The first method involves following the instructions for international applications and applying for a study permit as if you were outside of Canada.
  • The second method is completing a prerequisite program, such as ESL or University College Preparation Program, typically lasting 12-16 weeks, and then applying for a study permit from within Canada.

To apply for a study permit in Canada as a visitor, you’ll need to submit your completion letter for the prerequisite program along with your letter of acceptance. Your acceptance letter should state that your program is a prerequisite for admission.

 

Remember, you must apply for a study permit within the initial six months of your stay in Canada. Once your study permit application has been submitted before your visitor status expires, you may commence your academic studies. However, if your study permit application is refused, you’ll be required to stop studying.

Visitors in Canada Applying for a Study Permit

Canada Tourist to Study Permit Steps What you need to do
Step 1: Obtaining a Canadian Visitor Visa
International students typically enter Canada on a visitor visa, which allows them to stay in Canada temporarily for tourism, visiting family or friends, or conducting business.
Step 2: Enroll to a prerequisite program
Upon completion of the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program, which is often considered a prerequisite course, you may apply for conditional acceptance to both the EAP program and an academic program.
Step 3: Complete prerequisite course and apply for study permit
For your study permit application, you must submit your EAP or prerequisite completion letter AND your conditional acceptance letter to the academic program stating EAP as a prerequisite for admission.
Step 3: Obtaining a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
After being accepted into a DLI, students will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the institution, which is required for the study permit application.
Step 4: Gathering Required Documents
Students must gather the necessary documents, including proof of identity, financial capacity, and medical examination (if applicable), as well as the LOA from the DLI.
Step 5: Completing the Application
Students must complete the study permit application form or IMM form, pay the application fee, and submit the application online or in person at a visa application center or Canadian embassy/consulate.
Step 6: Waiting for Processing
Processing times for study permit applications vary depending on the country/region of application, but generally range from a few weeks to a few months.
Step 7: Receiving the Study Permit
If the study permit application is approved, the student will receive a study permit, which allows them to study in Canada for the duration of their program.

When it comes to immigration matters, it’s important to ensure that you have the most current and reliable information available. As immigration laws and policies are subject to change, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest developments to avoid any unexpected issues or delays.

 

For this reason, it’s always advisable to refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the latest information and guidelines related to study permits and other immigration matters. Additionally, it can be helpful to consult with a qualified immigration professional who can offer personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation.

 

By taking these steps, you can ensure that you have the most accurate and reliable information available, and can make informed decisions regarding your study permit application and other immigration-related matters.

Required Documents for Study Permit Application Inside Canada

Document Description
Proof of Identity
Valid passport or travel document
Prerequisite completion
Inland applications are required to show a conditional letter of acceptance and the prerequisite course proof of completion
Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
From a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada
Proof of Financial Capacity
Bank statements, student loans, sponsorship letters, etc. to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
Medical Examination (if applicable)
Depending on the country/region of origin, some students may need

Why should apply study permit inside Canada?

Individuals who fall under any of the following categories may consider applying to switch from a Tourist Visa (eTA)/Visitor Visa to a Study Permit:

  1. Those who wish to enroll in a college diploma program in Canada, and therefore need to transition from their current tourist or visitor status to that of a student.
  2. Individuals who have a gap of more than two years in their education, and are seeking to continue their studies in Canada.
  3. People over the age of 30 who are interested in pursuing educational opportunities in Canada.
  4. Married individuals or those with children who wish to study in Canada together with their family.
  5. Applicants who are unable to apply for a study permit in their home country, or have a history of previous refusals and are exploring alternative options.

Individuals who are currently in Canada on a Tourist Visa (eTA)/Visitor Visa and are interested in pursuing studies may be pleased to know that their chances of success for applying for a Study Permit from within Canada are generally higher than applying from overseas. In fact, the approval rate for such applications is as high as 97%.

 

One of the reasons for this higher success rate may be the fact that individuals who are already in Canada have the opportunity to explore different options and pursue the application process with more ease and convenience. Additionally, they may have already established a connection with their chosen educational institution and have taken steps towards meeting the prerequisites for their desired program.

 

However, it’s important to note that each case is unique, and there are still eligibility requirements and criteria that must be met to obtain a Study Permit from within Canada successfully. As such, it’s always recommended to refer to the IRCC website for the latest information and guidelines and to consult with a qualified immigration professional for personalized advice and guidance.

 

FAQs: Visitors Applying Study Permit inside Canada

Can I apply for a study permit from within Canada if I entered on a Tourist Visa (eTA)/Visitor Visa?

Yes, in most cases, individuals currently in Canada on a Tourist Visa (eTA)/Visitor Visa can apply for a study permit from within Canada. However, certain eligibility requirements must be met, such as completing a prerequisite program and submitting a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution.

How long does it take to process a study permit application from within Canada?

The processing time for a study permit application can vary depending on various factors, such as the volume of applications being processed at the time and the case's complexity. However, on average, it can take 3 to 4 months for a study permit application to be processed from within Canada.

Can I work while my study permit application is being processed from within Canada?

In most cases, individuals who have submitted a complete application for a study permit from within Canada are eligible to work while their application is being processed. However, it's important to refer to the IRCC website for the latest information and guidelines related to working while your study permit application is being processed.

Do I need to submit biometrics for my study permit application from within Canada?

Yes, most study permit applicants who are applying from within Canada are required to submit biometrics, which involves providing fingerprints and a photograph. You can refer to the IRCC website for more information on biometrics collection and where to go to provide them.

Can I study while my study permit application from within Canada is being processed?

Yes, in most cases, individuals who have submitted a complete application for a study permit from within Canada are eligible to start their studies while their application is being processed, as long as they meet certain requirements. However, it's important to note that if your application is ultimately refused, you may be required to stop studying and leave Canada.

More information about IRCC instructions for visitors can be found in the following links:

More information about IRCC instructions for visitors can be found in the following links:

 

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/making-application.html#InCanada

 

To check if you are eligible to apply from within Canada, select “Inside Canada” to check the list of eligible situations :

 

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html




About Canada Admission Hub

Admission Hub is one of the largest International Student Immigration Firm based in Toronto & Vancouver. Currently, it operates in the following markets: Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Brazil, Mexico, Turkey, Europe, Vietnam, and India.

 

Our parent company CVH Immigration Ltd. Admission Hub is helping and supporting International Students around the world to Study, Work, and Immigrate to Canada. We are proud to partner with over +150 Canadian Institutions.

 

If you want help with your Study Visa application, the first step is to BOOK A CONSULTATION with Admission Hub’s Consultant, share your background and our consultant will reach out to provide you with as much assistance as possible.