Canada Settlement Guide

To study in Canada, you generally need to: (1) Get accepted to a designated learning institution (DLI), (2) Prove you have enough money to pay for tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation, (3) Be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record, (4) Be in good health and willing to complete a medical examination if required, and (5) Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada after your studies.

A work permit is a temporary status that allows you to work in Canada for a specific period, usually tied to a particular job or employer. Permanent residency gives you the right to live and work anywhere in Canada indefinitely, with access to most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive. Unlike temporary residents, permanent residents can only lose their status in limited circumstances.

Processing times vary widely depending on the type of application, your country of residence, and current volumes. As of 2025, study permits typically take 4-12 weeks, work permits 4-16 weeks, visitor visas 2-6 weeks, and permanent residency through Express Entry about 6-8 months. Always check the IRCC website for current processing times as they change frequently.

Provincial Nominee Programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who are interested in settling in a particular province. Each province has its own streams and criteria for selecting nominees based on their economic needs and population goals. A provincial nomination can significantly increase your chances of receiving permanent residency.