The number of international students in Canada continues to grow each year, with many students successfully transitioning to work and permanent residency after completing their studies. Approval of a Canadian study permit is always subject to the discretion of the visa officer. In the previous year, Canada welcomed more than 400,000 international students from countries such as India, China, France, Nigeria, Japan, South Korea, the United States, Brazil, Iran, and Vietnam.

At Atlas World Consultancy, we help students maximize their chances of success through our International Student Program, offering complete guidance from admission to visa approval.

Student Health Insurance

Canada’s healthcare system varies by province, and international students must understand the insurance requirements of their study destination. Some provinces provide public health coverage to international students, while most require private health insurance.

In many cases, educational institutions offer their own health insurance plans for international students. Regardless of the province, universities and colleges are fully aware of insurance requirements and guide students accordingly.

Compliance Requirements

All Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) at the post-secondary level (except those in Quebec) are required to use the DLI portal to report international student enrollment status to Immigration authorities.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires students to actively pursue their studies. Full-time study is generally defined as a minimum of 9 credits (approximately 3 courses) per semester, though institutions may define it differently.

Renewing or Changing a Study Permit

Most students must apply online to extend their study permit from within Canada before it expires. Processing times may vary and can take several months.

If a study permit expires and no restoration application is submitted within 90 days, the student must leave Canada and apply again from their home country.

Visitor Visas for Canada

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), also known as a visitor or tourist visa, is issued by Canadian authorities and placed in the passport to confirm eligibility to enter Canada as a temporary resident—such as a visitor, student, or worker.

Some applicants may be required to undergo medical examinations, and criminal or medical inadmissibility may affect entry. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient financial support during their stay. Biometric submission may be required depending on nationality.

Spouse and Family Benefits

International students may be able to bring their spouse or common-law partner to Canada. Eligible family members can apply for a visitor visa or a spousal open work permit, depending on their situation.

Canada’s immigration system allows certain family members of students to accompany them for work or study opportunities, subject to eligibility conditions.

Working While Studying

International students may be eligible to work in Canada while studying if their study permit includes authorization for on-campus or off-campus employment.

Key conditions include:

• Work can only begin after the study program starts
• Students must maintain full-time enrollment
• Eligibility conditions on the study permit must be followed

Working during studies helps students gain experience and manage living expenses.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A Post-Graduation Work Permit allows international students to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies at a recognized institution. The duration depends on the length of the academic program.

To apply for PGWP, students must:

• Apply within 90 days of losing student status
• Pay required application fees
• Maintain eligibility conditions during stay
• Submit a complete application within the allowed time frame

Immigrate After Studying

After completing studies and gaining Canadian work experience through a PGWP, students can apply for Permanent Residence by:

• Gaining at least one year of skilled work experience
• Improving language proficiency through recognized tests
• Applying through the Express Entry system
• Exploring Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or other immigration pathways

This structured pathway makes Canada one of the most preferred destinations for long-term settlement after education.