Visa and Study Permit Information for International Students
Understanding Study Permits and Visas
If you are an international student planning to study at ATC Surrey, you will need a valid study permit to legally reside and study in Canada for the duration of your program. This permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and must be obtained before arriving in Canada.
A study permit is not a visa; if you are from a visa-required country, you may also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
For official details, visit the Government of Canada Study Permit Information.
Study Permit Requirements
To apply for a study permit, you must submit the following documents:
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) – Issued by ATC Surrey after you have completed the application and paid the required deposit.
- Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: You must demonstrate that you can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses (housing, food, transportation)
- Return transportation to your home country
- Medical Exam and Biometrics (if required) – Depending on your country of origin, you may need to undergo a medical examination and submit biometric data (fingerprints and photos).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) (if required) – Some applications may require you to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to study in Canada and how your program aligns with your career goals.
Steps to Apply for a Study Permit
Step 1: Receive Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Once you have met all admission requirements and paid the required deposit, ATC Surrey will issue a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), which is needed for your study permit application.
Step 2: Submit Your Study Permit Application
You can apply for your study permit online through the IRCC website or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the IRCC Portal.
- Apply at a Visa Application Centre (VAC): Find the closest VAC in your country for in-person support.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
- The standard study permit application fee is $150 CAD.
- If biometrics are required, an additional $85 CAD fee applies.
Step 4: Attend a Biometrics or Medical Appointment (If Required)
Depending on your country of residence, you may be required to:
- Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Application Support Centre (ASC) to submit your biometrics.
- Complete a medical examination with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Step 5: Wait for Processing & Decision
Processing times vary based on your country of application. Check the IRCC processing times for the latest estimates.
If approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and, if applicable, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
Entering Canada with Your Study Permit
What to Bring When Arriving in Canada
At the airport or border, you must present:
- Your Letter of Introduction (from IRCC)
- Your Valid Passport
- Your Letter of Acceptance from ATC Surrey
- Proof of funds to support your stay
- Medical exam results (if applicable)
A border officer will review your documents and issue your official study permit.
Study Permit Renewal & Extensions
If your study permit is set to expire before the end of your program, you must apply for an extension at least 30 days before it expires.
- Apply for an extension through IRCC’s Online Portal.
- Ensure your passport is still valid before applying.
If your study permit expires before you apply for an extension, you must leave Canada and reapply.
Common Study Permit Questions
If your program lasts six months or less, you may not need a study permit. However, if you plan to continue studying in Canada after your short-term program, it is recommended to apply for a study permit before arriving.
Processing times vary based on country and application volume. Check current estimates.
If your study permit is refused, IRCC will provide a reason. You may be able to reapply with additional documentation or address the concerns raised in your rejection letter.
Some international students can apply to bring their spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children to Canada. Your spouse may also be eligible for an open work permit.
For family sponsorship options, visit IRCC’s Family Immigration Page.
Get Support for Your Study Permit Application
The visa and study permit process can be complex, but we are here to help.
- Contact ATC Surrey for guidance:
- Visit the official government page for the most up-to-date information: Government of Canada Study Permit Information
