Study in Canada
Study Permits
Are you a student aspiring to study in Canada? Odyssey Law, led by licensed immigration lawyer Tara Pandes, is here to assist you in achieving that goal. We specialize in preparing comprehensive study permit application packages to facilitate a smooth entry into Canada. If you’re considering staying in Canada after graduation, we also provide assistance with Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Please see below for further information.
*Please note: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, please contact Odyssey Law for a consultation.
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most international students require a study permit to pursue their education in Canada.
Key Requirements:
A valid Letter of Acceptance from a DLI.
A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) from the province or territory where you plan to study.
Proof of identity (e.g., passport).
Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
Note: As of January 22, 2025, all study permit applications submitted from outside Canada must include a PAL/TAL, except for certain exceptions.
Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Depending on your country of residence and if you meet specific eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing of your study permit application. SDS is available to legal residents of certain countries and requires additional documentation, such as:
Proof of payment for the first year of tuition.
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $10,000.
Language test results demonstrating a score of at least 6.0 in each skill of the IELTS or equivalent.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada for a period equal to the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years. This work experience can be valuable if you plan to apply for permanent residency in the future.
Eligibility Criteria:
Completed a program of study at a PGWP-eligible DLI that was at least 8 months long.
Maintained full-time student status during each academic session of the program (with some exceptions).
Applied for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation (e.g., transcript or official letter) from your institution that you have met the requirements of your program.
For personalized assistance with your study permit or PGWP application, please contact Odyssey Law to schedule a consultation.