Important Documents List for Canada Study Permit
Getting your Canada study permit approved starts with one thing: having the right documents ready. Miss even one, and your application can get delayed or returned entirely. This guide cuts straight to what you need.
Documents You Always Need
These are non-negotiable. Every applicant must submit them.
1. Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Your school issues this letter, and you upload it directly to your online application. For post-secondary students, IRCC asks your school to validate the LOA. If your school does not respond before the deadline, your application gets returned and you have to resubmit. Confirm with your school that they will validate it before you apply.
2. Valid Passport
You need a copy of the information page of your valid passport. If your application gets approved, you must then send the original passport to IRCC. Make sure your passport covers your full intended study period.
3. Two Passport-Size Photos
Write the name and date of birth of the person on the back of each photo. These must follow IRCC photo specifications.
4. Proof of Financial Support
You must show that you can cover tuition fees, living expenses of at least CAD $22,895 per year, and return travel costs. Accepted documents include a bank balance certificate for the past six months, a GIC receipt, or an education loan letter from a recognized bank.
5. Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)
In most cases, you need a PAL or TAL from your province or territory. Students applying to study in Quebec need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) instead.
6. Visa Application Form (IMM 1294)
This is the main Canada study permit application form. Complete and sign it online through the IRCC portal.
7. Letter of Explanation (SOP)
You need to explain why you want to study in Canada and show that you understand your responsibilities as an international student.Be honest and specific about your study plans and future goals.
Documents You May Need (Additional)
8. Medical Exam
You need a medical exam if you plan to stay in Canada for more than six months, if you recently spent time in certain countries, or if you plan to work in jobs where public health protection is required.
9. Police Certificate
IRCC may ask for a police certificate in certain cases. Apply for one as early as possible if you think you might need it.
10. Custodian Declaration (for minors)
Children under the age of 17 who are not traveling to Canada with a parent or legal guardian must have an appointed custodian in Canada.
11. Country-Specific Documents
Your local visa office may require additional documents based on your country of application. Check the IRCC website, select “Outside Canada,” then choose your country to see what applies to you.
One Thing Most Students Miss
Do not attach any extra documents in the LOA-specific upload space. If you attach other documents in that space, you give consent for those documents to be shared with your school. All other required documents should go in their corresponding spaces in the application. canada
Apply early, gather everything on this list, and double-check expiry dates on your passport and supporting documents before you submit. A complete application is your fastest path to studying in Canada.
