Check the application processing times to find out how long it will take Citizen and Immigration Canada (CIC) to process your application. You can find this information on the CIC website. A study visa is a temporary residence application that is processed in Canada.
Print the application package, available online from the CIC website. There are five documents in the package: the Instruction Guide, Application for a Study Permit, Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union, Use of a Representative and a Document Checklist. You may also obtain a package from the appropriate visa office (see Resources).
Determine whether or not you will need a temporary resident visa as well. You can check the designated countries list online (see Resources). You do not need a separate application for your temporary resident visa, as it will be processed at the same time as your study permit.
Gather all the necessary documents. These documents include your proof of acceptance to study, proof of ID and proof of financial support. The visa office serving your country (see Resources) can tell you what, if any, additional documents might be required, as well as what the fees will be.
Check the provincial guidelines if you will be studying in Quebec. You will need to complete a Certificate d'acceptation du Québec.
Complete the application for a study permit. Complete all sections carefully and double-check it, as incomplete forms will not be processed but will be returned to you.
Pay the appropriate fee. Obtain information about the fee from your local visa office or at the Canadian embassy in your country. You must include your receipt of payment with your application.
Submit the application to the Canadian visa office that serves your country (see Resources). Citizens of the U.S., Greenland and Saint-Pierre et Miquelon are allowed to submit applications upon arriving in Canada.
Supply additional documents, if required. The visa office will likely request a medical examination and may also require police certificates for you and any accompanying family members.