Canada Study Permit Guide 2026
Everything Indian students need to know about the Canadian study permit — PAL requirement, proof of funds, fees, documents, and post-study work rights.
Study Permit & Work Permits Explained
Study Permit
The core document for full-time study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- PAL/TAL where required (CAQ for Quebec)
- Proof of funds: CAD 22,895 living costs + first-year tuition
- Valid passport & digital photo
- Upfront medical exam for Indian applicants
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Open work permit after graduating — the bridge from study to PR
- Graduated from a PGWP-eligible DLI program of 8+ months
- Programs of 2+ years (or any master's degree) earn 3 years
- Language result: CLB 7 for degree graduates
- Non-degree programs must be in an eligible field of study
Co-op / Internship Work Permit
For programs where a work placement is part of the curriculum
- Work placement is essential to completing the program
- Placement is 50% or less of the total program
- Valid study permit held throughout
Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP)
For spouses of students in eligible graduate and professional programs
- Since Jan 2025, limited to spouses of students in master's programs of 16+ months, doctoral programs, or select professional degrees
- Proof of genuine relationship
- Check current IRCC eligibility before planning
Key Policy Updates (2024-2026)
SDS discontinued
The Student Direct Stream ended on 8 November 2024 — all Indian applicants now use the regular study permit process. A GIC is optional but still a strong proof of funds.
PAL/TAL required
Most undergraduate and college applicants need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter. Master's and PhD students at public universities are exempt from January 2026.
Proof of funds raised
From 1 September 2025, single applicants outside Quebec must show CAD 22,895 for first-year living costs, on top of tuition and travel.
Work hours increased
Off-campus work during academic sessions is now capped at 24 hours per week (up from 20), with full-time work allowed in scheduled breaks.
Study Permit Application Process
Get Your Letter of Acceptance
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), accept your offer, and pay the deposit. Only DLI acceptances are valid for a study permit application.
Obtain the PAL / TAL
Your institution arranges the Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter through its provincial allocation after your deposit. Quebec-bound students apply for a CAQ instead. Applications missing a required PAL are returned unprocessed.
Arrange Proof of Funds
Show CAD 22,895 for first-year living costs (outside Quebec) plus first-year tuition — via bank statements, an education loan sanction letter, or a GIC. The GIC is optional since SDS ended, but remains the cleanest evidence.
Apply Online via IRCC
Create an IRCC secure account, complete the study permit application, upload documents, and pay the CAD 150 application fee plus CAD 85 biometrics fee.
Biometrics & Medical Exam
Give fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre. Indian applicants staying over 6 months need an immigration medical exam from an IRCC panel physician — doing it upfront avoids delays.
Decision & Travel
If approved, you receive a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction. The actual study permit is printed when you land in Canada — carry your letter, LOA, and proof of funds when you fly.
Required Documents
Letter of Acceptance
From a DLI on IRCC's designated list
PAL / TAL
Provincial attestation — unless you're in an exempt category
Valid Passport
Covering your intended study period
Proof of Funds
CAD 22,895 living costs + first-year tuition (outside Quebec)
Digital Photo
Meeting IRCC photo specifications
Medical Exam (IME)
Upfront exam from an IRCC panel physician for Indian applicants
English Test Scores
Required by your institution; strengthens your application
SOP / Letter of Explanation
Explains study plans and ties to home — highly recommended
Fees and thresholds change — always confirm current amounts on the official IRCC website before applying.
Visa Costs Breakdown
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