A study permit is issued to international students wishing to study at Canadian educational institutions, with specific requirements and conditions that students must meet. The type of permit depends on the duration of the student’s intended stay in Canada or the nature of their educational program, if practical.
If a student plans to stay for less than six months, they do not necessarily need a study permit. A visitor visa, tourist visa, or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) may suffice, depending on their nationality. However, if they wish to extend their stay to benefit from being students, they must apply for a regular study permit and ensure their study program is formal, accessing academic resources and facilities.
Short-term study permit: This permit is for international students planning to visit Canada for an educational program lasting less than six months, typically for English language learning or short-term training programs.
The requirements for this permit are straightforward. Applicants need proof that their program duration is less than six months, a valid passport, passport photos, financial means, proof of intent to return to their home country, and proof of acceptance into an educational institution.
Advantages of this permit include its simple and fast application process, lower costs compared to regular study permits, limited job opportunities typically tied to the program as practical training, learning English from native speakers, and experiencing Canadian education.
Disadvantages include insufficient time for full adaptation to Canadian society, limited opportunity to fully grasp the program’s knowledge, numerous work restrictions, and high living costs in Canada.