If you want to study in Canada for more than six months, you’ll usually need a study permit The process isn’t hard, but the rules have changed recently, especially the amount of money you have to show and the letter your province must give you. Here’s what you need for a 2027 start.
What Is a Canada Study Permit?
It’s the document that lets you study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada Most international students need one. You apply before you travel to Canada, and you need a letter of acceptance from your school first.
How Much Does It Cost?
The study permit fee is CAD 150. I couldn’t find the biometrics fee on the page I checked, so look it up on the IRCC site when you apply.
Read More: Schengen Study Visa Guide 2027: How It Really Works
How Much Money Do You Have to Show?
You must prove you can cover your first-year tuition, your living costs and your travel to and from Canada. For applications made on or after 1 September 2026, the living-cost amount is CAD 23,448 for a single applicant, not counting tuition and transport. It goes up with family members: CAD 29,192 for two people, CAD 35,888 for three, and so on. Before that date, the figure was CAD 22,895. Tuition depends on your programme, so use the amount your school lists. Quebec has its own amounts, set by the Quebec government.
What Is a PAL or TAL?
A provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL) is a letter from the province or territory where your school is, and most study permit applications need one.
Your school will usually tell you how to get it. The 2026 letter is valid until 31 December 2026, and letters from earlier years can’t be used. The page doesn’t give the 2027 rules yet, so check with your school.
You don’t need one if you’re in a master’s or doctoral programme at a public DLI (from 1 January 2026), or in school up to grade 12, or if you’re an exchange student who doesn’t pay tuition to the Canadian school, or a Global Affairs Canada scholarship holder, among other cases. For Quebec, you usually need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) instead. If you’re exempt, you still have to show proof.
Documents You Need
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- PAL or TAL, or proof that you’re exempt
- Proof of funds
- A valid passport
Your embassy page may list more, such as a language test or medical exam, so check IRCC’s document checklist for your country.
How to Apply Step by Step
- Get your letter of acceptance from a DLI.
- Ask your school about the PAL or TAL, and get it if you need it.
- Prepare your proof of funds and other documents.
- Apply online for the study permit before you travel.
- Give your biometrics if you’re asked.
- Wait for the decision. Don’t book non-refundable travel until you’re approved.
How Long Does It Take?
It depends on your country, and the official page sends you to a processing-time checker. Apply as early as you can after you get your letter of acceptance.
How Long Can You Stay?
The main study permit page doesn’t give a validity period, so check the permit you receive. Apply to extend before it expires if you’re staying longer.
FAQs
How much is the Canada study permit fee?
CAD 150.
How much money do I need to show?
CAD 23,448 for living costs (single applicant, from 1 September 2026), plus first-year tuition and travel.
Do I need a PAL?
Usually, unless you’re exempt. Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs don’t need one from 1 January 2026.
Do I need an acceptance letter first?
Yes, from a designated learning institution.
How long does processing take?
It varies by country. Use the IRCC processing-time tool.
