Want to study or build a career in Canada? IELTS is accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as evidence of English language proficiency.
Here’s what you need to know about the visa application process.
Canadian student visa
A student visa, known as a study permit, is essential for those who plan to study for more than six months at a Canadian educational institution.
Applying for a study permit
- Get accepted: Before applying for a study permit, you must be accepted by a designated learning institution in Canada.
- Gather your documents: These include your acceptance letter, a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from the province or territory where you plan to study, proof of financial support, and a passport or travel document.
- Apply online: You must apply online, whether you’re outside of Canada or already in the country.
Your study permit will not be finalised until you’ve submitted a complete application. Waiting to submit documents will cause delays.
The time it takes to process your application can vary. During this period, you might be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview.
Canadian work visa
There are two main work visas in Canada, open work permits and employer-specific work permits.
Open work permits
These allow you to work for any employer in Canada, excluding companies who fail to comply with labour conditions or offer adult entertainment services. The most common open work permit is issued through the International Mobility Program.
Employer-specific work permits
As the name suggests, these permits are tied to a specific employer. This means you can only work for the employer, location, and position specified on your permit. Before applying, the employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that no Canadian worker is available to fill the position.
Steps to apply for a work visa
- Determine the right permit: Choose between an open or employer-specific work permit based on your job offer and circumstances.
- Collect your documents: This includes proof of identity, employment offer, and LMIA, if required, to show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job.
- Complete the application: Complete your application online and pay the processing fee.
Processing times can vary, so it's important to apply as early as possible.
Follow the latest guidelines
Immigration policies can change. Always ensure you’re following the most current application procedures and requirements as stated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Make your move with IELTS and access a world of opportunities.