Canada stands out as an acclaimed destination for a top-tier education system due to its institutions ranking among the best in the world. Some of these well-known Canadian institutions stand out from the rest because they are affordable have cutting-edge research opportunities excellent academic standards, and incredibly supportive students.
Across the world, students from various locations dream of a Canada student visa because it is the most educated country with more than half of its population possessing higher degrees. Additionally, Canada has different programs available for students who want to stay after their studies.
In this guide, we will be guiding you step by step on how to extend your Canada study permit.
Brief Overview of Canada Student Visa
The Canada study permit is almost similar to a Canada visit visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization program (eTA), however, the student must also hold a Canada study permit to be eligible for study. It is a document that will enable beginning your education in Canada.
A student permit enables you to attend schooling under the designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The study permit will permit you to be present in Canada for a limited period, namely the duration of the study.
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Study Permit:
Certain conditions must be fulfilled to keep your student visa in Canada.
- Be enrolled in a Designated Learning Institute in Canada.
- Meet all the requirements of the student visa.
- Do not overstay in Canada after your study permit expires.
- Work towards the completion of your study program.
A step-by-step guide on how to extend your student visa
When should you apply
It is preferable to turn the application early enough to process by the expiration of your current permit. Typically 2-3 months of advance application would be fine. If you find out you need extra time or that you might travel in the next few months, then you can apply as early as possible and include a letter that explains your situation and documents to support your application.
Which documents are required
- Submission for Modification of Circumstances, Prolongation of my Term or Continuity of my Status in Canada as a Student.
- Confirmation of registration (for current students)
- Acceptance letter (for new students)
- Proof of financial support
- IRCC expects you to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to meet the minimum tuition fee for one year.
- Copies of your passport or travel document.
- Passport-style photograph
- Processing fee
- Including a letter explaining and giving further details about your circumstances.
- Biometrics: If you belong to another country and you have not submitted biometrics as part of your Canadian immigration application within the last 10 years, you will need to do that. Another option to consider is that you could resubmit already collected biometrics in case your existing biometrics are going to expire before you graduate. After sending the application, you will be provided with the Biometric Instruction Letter that will take you through a booking procedure for a biometric collection appointment.
- Additional Documents: The immigration officers have the potential to ask for more documents to make a final decision about you. They might want you to attach those documents to the online application which you can do by logging in to your account uploading all the documents and resubmitting the whole application.
Where to Apply For An Extension
Apply for an extension online through the IRCC website.
Approval of Extension
IRCC will inform you that your application was approved through your account in IRCC. The Canada study permit will be sent to the Canadian address mentioned in the application. The processing time could take up to 6 weeks.
Conclusion
Overall, Canada is an ideal destination for foreign students due to its wide range of educational opportunities and high quality of education, which not only cater to students but also provide a pathway for their future trajectory, due to the strong reputation of the Canadian institutes.
The Canada study permit allows you to embark on your educational journey in Canada by getting admitted into a Designated Learning Institute. The visa extension process consists of various steps and documentation that need to be fulfilled to make sure your application gets approved.