Student Visa Information

If you require a student visa you must apply for a student visa before you arrive in British Columbia. The following provides general information about student visa's but it is your responsibility to contact the correct Canadian Government office to ensure that you have completed all the necessary applications and have received a response from the Canadian government.

Once you have been accepted by a recognized educational institution and have a letter of acceptance, you can apply for student admission to Canada at the nearest Canadian Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate. They will advise you on additional requirements such as visitor's visa, a study permit or a temporary resident's visa and medical clearance. Each visa type requires different documentation and different financial resources so it is very important that you find out exactly what you will need.

A visitor's visa is required for programs that are up to 6 months long. A student visa is usually required for programs that are longer than 6 months. You should contact a Government of Canada office as soon as possible to make sure that you have all the required documentation.

In general you will need the following to apply for a student visa:

• a letter of acceptance from the school of your choice;
• proof that you have enough money to pay school fees and live near the school;
• establish that you will return home at the end of your studies;
• pass a medical exam if needed; and
• qualify as a temporary resident in Canada, including a temporary resident visa if needed.

It is your responsibility to find out and apply for the correct visa for entering into Canada. Please check with your school to make sure that you have all the information and requirements.

The following links provide specific information:

Canadian Government International Students information

• Canadian Government Immigration Web site
• Canadian government Guide for students
• Canadian government site for online forms
• Canadian government fact sheet for international students

Canadian Immigration Centres Abroad

• Lists and links for Canadian offices outside of Canada

Canadian Embassies and Missions Around the World

You will need to complete the necessary applications forms, provide proof of identity, proof of financial support, medical examination if you are staying longer than 6 months and payment for the required visa. Many of these forms and processes take several weeks so make sure you speak with a representative from a Canadian Embassy as soon as possible. It is crucial that you find out which type of visa you will require, and that you complete all the necessary application and approval processes before you arrive.

BCCIE is not able to answer questions with regards to visa applications. Please contact the Canadian Embassy in your home country for information.