What is a Canadian study permit?
A study permit is the document that allows eligible international students to study at a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI) for the duration of their authorized studies.
It is not the same thing as a Canadian visa.
If you need a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, that is handled as part of the
Process after your study permit application is approved.
Canadian study permit 2026: All time requirements
Government of Canada — Study Permit�
1. You need a Letter of Acceptance
The starting point is usually an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution.
A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
So, Before paying tuition or submitting your study permit application, check that your institution is actually on Canada’s official DLI list.
Don’t rely only on an agent or a social media post that is telling you that a school is approved. Check it yourself.