Studying in Canada

Study Permit: If you are an international student and your program of study is longer than 6 months, you require a valid Study Permit to study in Canada. Some exceptions apply: programs that are less than 6 months (e.g. single semester exchange students), and online programs. If you are in a program that includes a mandatory co-op, internship, practicum, or placement, you additionally require a Co-op Work Permit.

Study Permit Extension: This extends your stay in Canada as a student so that you can continue or complete your academic studies. You must extend your permit before it expires or you will lose your student status in Canada. You should submit your study permit extension application at least 2-3 months before your study permit expires.

New in 2024 and set to be expanded in 2025, certain groups of international students now require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) as part of their study permit application. A PAL is an official document, issued by the province or territory where the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is located, that confirms you are eligible to apply for a study permit. PALs are issued after an international student has been formally offered admission to a DLI (e.g. Dalhousie). Dalhousie will advise you on the PAL process, including whether you require a PAL, after your application to Dalhousie has been received. More information about the PAL, including which categories of students require a PAL and which do not, can be found on the Government of Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, & Citizenship Canada website.

Co-op Work Permit: Students in programs that include a mandatory work term, internship, practicum, or placement require a Co-op Work Permit which can be requested as part of your original study permit application. Students who decide later in their academic program to participate in an optional work term, internship, practicum, or placement will need to apply separately for a Co-op Work Permit after they arrive in Canada.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): A TRV is a travel document that allows you to enter (and re-enter) Canada. Citizens of certain countries may require a TRV, so you should check to see if you require a TRV. Students who are applying for a Study Permit from outside Canada will automatically receive a TRV when their Study Permit application is approved. No separate application is required. To avoid any issues entering or re-entering Canada during your studies, make sure to renew your TRV before it before it expires.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): An eTA is an electronic travel document that is used by visa-exempt travellers to enter, re-enter, and transit through Canada. Depending on your citizenship, you may require an eTA. Check to see if you need an eTA. Students who are applying for a Study Permit from outside Canada will automatically receive an eTA when their Study Permit application is approved. No separate application is required.

Passport: All students need a passport issued by the government of your country of citizenship, certifying your identity. It is used when travelling to and from foreign countries. To avoid issues with applying for a study permit, renewing a study permit, and/or applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you should renew your passport at least 6 months before its expiration date.