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Study permit in Canada: What it is and what it allows

Check your Eligibility

If you’re planning to pursue your master’s or other postgraduate studies in Canada, you’ll need more than an acceptance letter – you’ll need a study permit. A Canadian study permit is the official document that lets you stay in Canada to complete your program. But it’s also much more than just a visa – it shapes your work opportunities, your path to permanent residence and your overall experience as an international postgraduate.

Here’s what you need to know to plan ahead and avoid surprises.

What is a study permit and when do you need one?

A Canadian study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that authorizes you to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. For international students, it’s essentially your legal status in the country for the duration of your studies.

You’ll need a study permit if:

  • You’re enrolled in a program that’s longer than six months.
  • You’re taking courses that lead to a degree, diploma or certificate – like a master’s degree or a specialized postgraduate diploma.
  • You want to work on campus or take advantage of work options during your program.

If you’re just visiting Canada for a short course (under six months), you might be able to use a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead. But for most master’s abroad and other graduate programs, a study permit is essential.

What does a study permit allow?

Beyond letting you study at a DLI, a study permit opens doors to real-world experience and work opportunities:

  • Work on campus: During your program, you can work up to 24 hours a week on campus without a separate work permit.
  • Work off campus: With your study permit, you’re also eligible to work off campus under certain conditions – up to 24 hours per week during the semester and full time during scheduled breaks.
  • Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility: Graduating from a recognized DLI with a valid study permit can make you eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after you finish your degree.
  • Pathway to permanent residence: Work experience gained through the PGWP can count towards permanent residency options like the Canadian Experience Class.

These opportunities can be critical for international postgraduates hoping to build a life and career in Canada.

International student in a warm, modern library using a laptop to research post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility.

Explore Immigration Tips

Have questions about the visa process? MPOWER's immigration resources are for students like you.

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Key requirements and limitations of study permits in Canada

Even with a Canada student visa in hand, there are rules and restrictions to keep in mind as part of maintaining your Canadian student visa requirements:

  • Enrollment: You must remain enrolled full time at a DLI and make progress toward completing your program.
  • Work limits: Working more than the allowed hours can lead to visa issues and future reentry bans.
  • Valid passport: Your study permit is tied to your passport’s expiry date – renew your passport in time to keep your study permit valid.
  • PGWP Canada eligibility: Not every program qualifies for a PGWP – always check that your program and institution meet the requirements.

Understanding these nuances can help you avoid missteps that might jeopardize your studies or future immigration plans.

Beyond the study permit: Building your financial foundation

While the study permit itself doesn’t provide funding, it’s a crucial piece of the financial puzzle for Canadian colleges for international students. Once you have your permit, you’ll need to:

A strong financial foundation means you can focus on your studies and the opportunities that come with a Canadian degree.

International student in a cozy apartment kitchen reviewing financial documents and creating a budget with a steaming mug of tea to meet Canadian study permit funding requirements.

MPOWER Financing’s perspective: Supporting your Canadian journey

At MPOWER Financing, supporting international postgraduates isn’t just about options for student loans – it’s about recognizing how every piece of your Canadian experience fits together.

MPOWER offers no-cosigner student loans to help cover tuition and other university-invoiced educational expenses. MPOWER’s application process is digital and accessible from anywhere in the world.

Not only does MPOWER offer funding, but they offer the Path2Success program which includes international student resources to help you prepare for PGWP eligibility, build a credit history and manage your finances in a new country. They understand that your study permit is just the start of your Canadian journey – and they’re ready to be there for every step that follows.

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FAQs

What is a Canadian study permit?

It’s a document that allows international postgraduates to study at recognized Canadian institutions.

Do I need a study permit if my program is only six months?

No, you might be able to use a visitor visa or eTA instead for short programs under six months.

What work can I do with a study permit?

You can work on campus and, in many cases, off campus up to 24 hours per week during the semester.

What’s the link between a study permit and the PGWP?

Graduating from a recognized university (aka DLI) with a valid study permit can make you eligible for a post-graduation work permit, which is key for working in Canada after graduation.

What happens if my passport expires before my study permit?

Your study permit will expire when your passport does. Renew your passport in time to avoid disruptions.


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