Temporary Residence Visas
Study Permits
A study permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows foreign nationals to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Most international students must obtain a study permit before travelling to Canada.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they:
- Have been accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Have sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation
- Will comply with the conditions of their stay and leave Canada when their authorized stay ends
Depending on the case, applicants may also need a medical examination or police certificate. Study permits may include conditions regarding where you can study and whether you may work during your studies. Processing times vary by country.
Important Considerations
Most applicants must obtain a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) before applying. Students must comply with the conditions of their study permit and actively pursue their studies. Eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) generally requires completion of an eligible program at a PGWP-eligible DLI and may also depend on program details and the student’s physical presence in Canada while studying.
Work Permits
A work permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada temporarily. Most applicants need a valid job offer before applying. Work permits generally fall into two categories: LMIA-based and LMIA-exempt.
LMIA-Based Work Permits (Temporary Foreign Worker Program – TFWP):
Employers must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labour market.- LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (International Mobility Program – IMP):
- Certain permits are exempt from an LMIA because they bring economic, cultural, or reciprocal benefits to Canada. Examples include: Intra-company transfers; Free trade agreement categories; Spousal open work permits; Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)
Some permits are employer-specific, while others are open, allowing work for most employers in Canada.
Key Points
- Work permits may restrict employer, occupation, location, or duration of work.
- Some family members may be eligible to apply for temporary status or work authorization.
Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and the applicant’s country of residence.
Visitor & Super Visas
A Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) allows foreign nationals from visa-required countries to travel to Canada for a temporary stay, such as tourism, visiting family, or short business activities. Applicants must satisfy an officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay and have sufficient funds for their visit.
The Super Visa is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It is a long-term multiple-entry visa that allows stays of up to 5 years per visit. Super Visa Requirements:
- Eligible Canadian medical insurance
- Written financial support from the child or grandchild in Canada
Immigration medical examination
What You Should Know
- A Visitor Visa (TRV) does not authorize work or long-term study, except in limited circumstances
- Super Visa applicants must meet minimum income requirements through their host in Canada
- Valid Canadian medical insurance must be maintained for the stay
Medical exams are mandatory for all Super Visa applications
