Study Permits
For people with a real study plan at a designated learning institution — not a permit used as a back-door work program.
A study permit lets you study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Many applications now also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). Officers look at the program, your funds, your ties, and whether the study plan makes sense. A post-graduation work permit is a later, separate application and is not guaranteed by the study permit.
School
Must be a DLI
The program must also be eligible for the permit you want.
PAL / TAL
Often required
Exemptions exist; we check the current IRCC list.
Work while studying
IRCC sets the weekly limit
Confirm the rule in force when you apply or travel.
PGWP
Not automatic
Depends on the school, program, and current PGWP rules.
Who this is for
- You have or are obtaining a letter of acceptance from a DLI
- You can show tuition and living funds from a lawful source
- Your program matches a genuine study or career plan
- You may later explore a PGWP or a spouse’s open work permit if the rules allow it
Who this is not for
- You want a work permit and are using school only as a pretext
- You cannot explain how you will pay tuition and living costs
- You assume a study permit guarantees permanent residence
What RSTM handles
- DLI and program fit review (including PAL/TAL and PGWP implications)
- Study-plan and financial package
- Study permit forms and supporting index
- Advice on working while studying under current rules
- Later PGWP or family-permit strategy — as a separate step
How this program works
- 1
Program and PAL
We confirm the DLI, the program, and whether a provincial attestation letter is required before you spend money you cannot recover.
- 2
Acceptance and funds
We review the letter of acceptance, GIC or bank evidence, and the study plan an officer will read in minutes.
- 3
Permit application
We file the study permit with a document set that matches the portal answers.
- 4
After arrival
We explain status conditions, on-campus and off-campus work rules, and when a PGWP clock actually starts — without treating PR as included.
Documents and requirements
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- PAL/TAL if IRCC requires it for your program and intake
- Proof of funds for tuition and living costs
- Ties and a study plan that survive a dual-intent analysis
- Admissibility (medical and police where required)
Checklist
- Letter of acceptance and PAL/TAL if issued
- Passport and civil documents
- Bank statements, GIC, or sponsor affidavits
- Study plan and education transcripts
- Biometrics and medical exam when requested
Robert Makkar, RCIC · CICC licence R508785 · Toronto, Ontario
Advice specific to your circumstances is given in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC — not by an automated score.
Verify licence with CICC“Robert and the RSTM team made our Express Entry journey so smooth. From the initial assessment to receiving our ITA, we always felt in good hands.”
“Exceptional service for my LMIA-based work permit. The team was responsive, thorough, and delivered on every promise.”
“RSTM helped me sponsor my husband. The process was complex but Robert guided us every step of the way.”
Frequently asked questions
This page is preliminary information only. It is not legal advice, not a confirmation of eligibility, and not a guarantee of an invitation, approval, or any particular outcome. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC.
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