Study Permit vs Student Visa: Key differences for Canada-bound students
If you’re planning to study in Canada, you may see both “study permit” and “student visa” used in different places. Although they sound similar, they’re not the same. Understanding the difference can help you avoid confusion, delays or travel issues.
Here’s what each one means and what you need to know before you arrive in Canada.
What is a study permit?
The study permit is the official document that allows international students to study in Canada (and should not be confused with a U.S. student visa). It’s issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is based on your admission to a designated learning institution.
The study permit:
- Lets you attend classes at your approved school
- Is typically valid for the length of your program plus 90 days
- May allow part-time or full-time work under certain conditions
- Does not, by itself, allow you to enter Canada
You need to apply for a study permit before you arrive. In most cases, you must include your letter of acceptance, proof of funds and other documents.
Once approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction confirming your permit. You’ll get your actual study permit when you enter Canada and present your documents to a border officer.
What is a student visa (or TRV)?
A student visa, also known as a temporary resident visa (TRV), is what allows you to enter Canada as a visitor. You need it if you’re coming from a country that requires a visa for entry.
Think of it this way:
- The TRV lets you cross the Canadian border.
- The study permit lets you attend school once you’re inside the country.
If you’re from a visa-required country, IRCC will automatically issue a TRV along with your approved study permit. You do not need to apply separately.
If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you may need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead. This is a digital entry document that’s also tied to your study permit approval.
Key differences between a study permit and a student visa
|
Category |
Study permit |
Student visa (TRV) |
|
Purpose |
Allows you to study in Canada |
Allows you to enter Canada |
|
Issued by |
IRCC |
IRCC (linked to study permit approval) |
|
Needed for entry? |
No |
Yes, if you are from a visa-required country |
|
Needed for study? |
Yes |
No |
|
Issued when |
After visa approval, provided at border |
Before travel, stamped in passport |
|
Valid for |
Length of your program |
Duration of entry (single or multiple) |
Can I travel in and out of Canada with just a study permit?
No. A study permit is not a travel document. If you plan to leave and re-enter Canada during your studies, make sure your TRV or eTA is valid before traveling. If your TRV expires while you’re in Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new one before you can return.
Always check expiration dates and plan ahead if you expect to travel during school breaks or for emergencies.
How MPOWER Financing helps you qualify for your Canadian study permit
One of the biggest parts of your study permit application is proving you have enough money to support yourself while studying in Canada. MPOWER Financing offers international student loans for students attending approved Canadian universities.
An MPOWER student loan can:
- Cover tuition and university-invoiced expenses through both loans and study abroad scholarships
- Help you meet Canada’s proof of funds requirement, including GIC needs
- Provide a formal loan approval letter to include with your study permit application
There’s no cosigner or collateral required, and international student loans are accepted by many top institutions across Canada.
You can apply online and receive a fast decision, giving you more time to focus on your visa and travel plans.
Know the difference before you pack
Both the study permit and student visa are essential parts of studying in Canada, but they serve different purposes. One allows you to enter the country, the other allows you to study once you’re there.
Make sure you understand which documents you need for the Canada study visa process. That way, your arrival in Canada will be smooth and stress-free.
