Temporary Residence
Study Permits
A study permit is a document issued by IRCC that allows foreign nationals to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada, and it is generally recommended to apply before travelling. To be approved, applicants must show they are enrolled at a DLI, have enough funds to pay for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation (for themselves and any accompanying family members), and satisfy an officer that they will leave Canada when their study permit expires. Depending on the case, applicants may also need a medical exam or police certificate, and study permits can include conditions such as where you can study and whether you may work while studying. Processing times vary by country.
Accepted students at a DLI who can meet the program's eligibility requirements, including proof of funds and any required supporting documents.
In most cases, you will need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). You must follow the conditions on your study permit and make progress toward completing your program. If you plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), eligibility depends on completing an eligible program at a PGWP-eligible DLI, and may also depend on your program details (such as field of study or language requirements) and your physical location while studying.
Foreign nationals with a valid job offer under TFWP or who qualify under an LMIA-exempt category through the International Mobility Program, and who meet admissibility requirements.
Work permits may be employer-specific or open. Conditions can restrict the employer, occupation, location, or duration of work. In some cases, accompanying family members may be eligible to apply for status or work authorization.
Work Permits
A work permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada temporarily. In most cases, a valid job offer is required before applying. There are two main categories of work permits: those that require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and those that are LMIA-exempt.
Under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), employers must obtain a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before the worker can apply. The LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market.
Under the International Mobility Program (IMP), certain work permits are LMIA-exempt because they provide broader economic, cultural, or reciprocal benefits to Canada. Examples include intra-company transfers, free trade agreement categories, spousal open work permits, and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Some IMP permits are employer-specific, while others are open work permits that allow you to work for most employers in Canada.
Processing times vary depending on the type of application and the applicant's country of residence.
Visitor & Super Visas
A visitor visa, also called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows foreign nationals from visa-required countries to travel to Canada for a temporary stay, such as tourism, family visits, 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 a long-term visitor option for eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows multiple entries and permits stays of up to 5 years per visit. Super Visa applicants must meet additional requirements, including purchasing eligible Canadian medical insurance, obtaining a written financial commitment from their child or grandchild in Canada, and completing an immigration medical exam.
Visitors who can demonstrate a genuine temporary purpose for travel, sufficient financial support, and ties outside Canada. The Super Visa is available to eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who meet income and insurance requirements.
A visitor visa does not authorize work or long-term study, except in limited circumstances. Super Visa applicants must meet minimum income thresholds through their host and maintain valid Canadian medical insurance coverage for their stay. A medical exam is mandatory for all Super Visa applications.