Step 2 – Apply For Your Immigration Documents
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Studying in Canada for 6 months or more?
Before you can study in Canada, you must obtain a Study Permit by applying to your closest Canadian Embassy or Consulate. Apply early, as Canadian representatives have deadlines for processing your request.
Depending on your citizenship or where you live, you may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) as well as a study permit. Check the CIC website for the list of countries/territories requiring a TRV. If you are from one of the designated countries, a visa officer will process your application for a temporary resident visa at the same time. You do not need a separate application.
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Studying in Canada for less than 6 months?
If you are an exchange, visiting or ESL student here for one term or less, you may enter Canada as a visitor and study at SFU without a study permit (visit the CIC website for more information). However, if there is any chance that you will decide to extend your stay for a second term, we recommend that you obtain a study permit before coming to Canada.
Holding a valid study permit also permits you to accept on-campus employment, while you are a student at SFU.
Please note that if you are from one of following countries, you will need a Temporary Resident Visa to enter Canada, even if a study permit is not required for your studies.
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When applying for your immigration documents:
(1) Check the application processing times. This will give you an idea of how long it will take to process your application.
(2) Determine where you will be submitting your application. You must submit your application to the visa office that is responsible for the country or region where you live.
(3) Read the Application Guide and collect the necessary Forms and Documents required. The CIC website provides the resources you will need to apply for your documents. Please note that to apply for a study permit, you will typically require a valid passport, proof of funds* and an Official SFU Letter of Acceptance (e-mailed or mailed to you).
(4) Consult the website of the Canadian visa office serving the country or region where you live to determine if you are required to provide additional forms or documents.You should also refer to this office if you have any questions about your application or the application process.
*Graduate Student? Check out the Dean of Graduate Studies website to see which admission documents to use for your immigration applications.
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Go to…Step 3 – Apply for Housing
Return to…International Student Advising and Programs website
Go to…Medical exams
Go to…Information for Minor students (19 years or younger)
Go to…Applying online for your immigration documents
Go to…Bringing family to Canada
Go to…Postponing your arrival
Go to…Information for US citizens
Go to…Tips for Avoiding Delays in Study Permit Processing