Planning to study in Canada? Know difference between student visa and study permit

India Today

26-05-2025

If you're planning to study in Canada as an international student, you'll likely come across two important terms during the application process: study permit and student visa. While these are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to two distinct parts of the journey to becoming an international student in Canada.Understanding the difference between them is key to avoiding confusion and ensuring a smooth transition from acceptance letter to campus life.advertisement WHAT IS A CANADIAN STUDENT VISA?A Canadian student visa -- more accurately referred to as a visitor visa or electronic travel authorisation (eTA) -- is the document that allows you to enter Canada. Think of it as your ticket into the country. Without it, you won't be able to board your flight or cross the border.
Once your study permit is approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you'll receive a port of entry letter of introduction, along with a visitor visa or eTA, depending on your country of residence.These documents confirm that you've been authorised to study in Canada, but they are not your actual study permit. WHAT IS A CANADIAN STUDY PERMIT?Your study permit is the document that allows you to live in Canada and study at a designated learning institution (DLI).advertisementYou'll receive this permit only after arriving at a Canadian port of entry -- typically an international airport -- where a border services officer will issue the permit after a short interview and document check.
To be clear:Student visa (visitor visa or eTA) = Authorisation to enter CanadaStudy permit = Authorisation to remain in Canada for the purpose of studyingYou cannot legally begin your studies unless you have both. WHAT TO EXPECT UPON ARRIVAL IN CANADAAt the border, you'll be interviewed by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. They will confirm the purpose of your visit and assess whether you meet all the conditions of your study permit.Common questions include:What programme are you enrolled in?What school are you attending?How long is your programme?Do you have sufficient funds to support yourself?Are there any work restrictions on your permit?Even if your study permit has already been approved by IRCC, it's ultimately the CBSA officer who decides whether you're allowed to enter the country. This makes preparation essential.advertisementEnsure you carry all your supporting documents admission letter, financial proof, and identification -- in your carry-on baggage, not checked luggage.
MAINTAINING YOUR STUDY PERMIT IN CANADAOnce you've arrived and begun your programme, maintaining your study permit is just as important as obtaining it. This means:Studying full-time at your DLIComplying with any work conditions stated on your permitUpdating the Canadian government with changes to your address or personal informationRenewing or extending your permit before it expires, especially if you switch schools or programmesRecent updates to Canadian immigration policy in November 2024 now require students to reapply for a study permit extension if they change their post-secondary institution.This is a significant change from previous rules. Staying up-to-date with these requirements helps you avoid disruptions to your studies.Navigating the Canadian immigration process can seem overwhelming at first, but knowing the distinction between a student visa and a study permit is a critical first step.Your visa gets you into the country; your study permit allows you to stay and pursue your education. Both are essential to your international student journey.advertisementAs you prepare for your studies in Canada, stay informed, stay organised, and take the time to understand your responsibilities as a study permit holder. A smooth arrival starts with preparation and the right paperwork.- Article by Saif Iqbal, Vice President, ApplyBoard