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How You can Apply for a Study Permit to Canada amidst COVID-19

Because of the impacts of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), your applications won't be processed normally. And the processing might longer than usual. Canadians trying to return to Canada, vulnerable people, and people who perform or support essential services such as those related to agriculture, agri-food and health care are being prioritized.

 

You can Apply Online

If you’re applying for a study permit, you should apply online. This applies to both categories - those who are outside of Canada and those who are already in Canada. When you apply, you should submit all the possible documents needed for a complete application. You must also include a letter of explanation for any documents that are missing due to COVID-19. You can apply on paper on If you are unable to apply online because of a disability or because there’s a problem with the online application.

 

If you plan to study in Quebec, you must provide a valid Quebec Acceptance Certificate or proof that you applied for one.

How we process applications submitted from outside Canada

If you have applied for a study permit from outside of Canada by September 15, 2020 or for programs that start, or started, in spring, suumer or all 2020, your application will be processed in 2 stages.

 

In stage 1, an officer reviews your application for

  • a letter of acceptance from a DLI
  • a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (if you’ll be studying in Quebec)
  • proof that you have enough money for tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada, and return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
  • any family ties you may have to Canada
  • evidence that you’ll leave Canada when you no longer have legal status

You’ll be informed through your online account, if you pass this stage. However, passing this stage won't guarantee that your application will be approved or you'll be issued a  study permit.

 

In this stage 2, an officer reviews your application for

  • a medical exam (if needed)
  • police certificates (if needed)
  • your biometrics
  • any information that changed after your application is reviewed for eligibility

Your application will be approved if you pass this stage.


(This article is as per the information updated by IRCC on October 2, 2020.)

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