You first secure a letter of acceptance from a Canadian school, then apply online to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before travelling, and IRCC alone decides the application.
- Letter of acceptance: The school or district issues it once the student is admitted. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are automatically designated learning institutions, so they do not appear on the public DLI list.
- Custodianship: A child under 17 who comes without a parent or legal guardian must have a custodian in Canada, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The notarized Custodianship Declaration (IMM 5646) is submitted with the application.
- No attestation letter: Students applying to primary or secondary school (up to grade 12) do not need a provincial attestation letter. Students going to Quebec still need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
- Application and fees: You apply online with the passport, proof of funds and school documents. IRCC lists the study permit fee at CAD 150 and biometrics at CAD 85 per person.
- After approval: IRCC sends a port of entry letter of introduction, plus a visitor visa or eTA if one is needed. The study permit itself is issued by the border officer on arrival.
Please note: Fees and document requirements are updated periodically; confirm on the IRCC website and your local visa office checklist before applying.
Official sources: IRCC: Study permit, how to apply · IRCC: Minor children studying in Canada · IRCC: Guide 5269, applying for a study permit outside Canada
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