Visa Information
Visa Requirement
A Study Permit is not required for programs less than 6 months in length. Please confirm if you need either a Temporary Resident Permit or an eTA before entering Canada. Immigration: Visit the Refugee Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to check this.
Document Requirements
Before you submit a study permit application, you will need:
- (LOA) A letter of acceptance from IHV International House Vancouver
- Financial proof (GIC) tuition fees and living expenses for Canada
- A medical exam, if required
- Biometrics, if required
Length of Stay | 6 months or longer |
Length of Study | 6 months or longer |
Visa Process | Apply for visa before arrival. Can use school Letter of Acceptance |
Work Authorization | – Not authorized for language study programs. |
If your academic program includes a co-op or work placement, international students are obligated to apply for both a co-op work permit and a study permit. The application for a co-op work permit must be submitted together with the study permit application. This permit enables you to work full-time during your co-op work placement, and it is essential to possess the permit prior to the commencement of your co-op component.
If your study program includes a co-op or work placement, international students must apply for both a co-op work permit and a study permit. The application for the co-op work permit should be submitted together with the study permit application. This permit enables you to work full-time during your co-op work placement, and it is essential to have the permit in hand before the start of your co-op component.
Type of Visa | Working Holiday Visa (eligible countries) |
Length of Stay | 1 year (some exceptions) |
Length of Study | Up to 6 months |
Visa Process | Apply before arrival |
Work Authorization | Open work permit (Open work permit VISA holders are allowed to accept and do full-time jobs.) |
Length of Stay | Up to 6 months |
Length of Study | Up to 6 months |
Visa Process | Apply for eTA before arrival or Apply for Temporary Resident Visa before arrival |
Work Authorization | None – not allowed to work |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is International House Vancouver able to apply for visas and permits on behalf of International College students?
No. Only Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants and Canadian Lawyers are authorised to apply for immigration visas and permits on behalf of students. However, our team can provide our students with guidance on general immigration issues, and refer them to immigration practitioners that can assist them with their needs.
When do students receive these documents?
The students will receive these documents upon their arrival in Canada, either from the Immigration Officer at the airport or land border. It is necessary for them to present the documentation that verifies their study permit application has been approved by a visa office outside Canada.
What if the student is completing a less-than-6-month English program as a prerequisite for the International House Vancouver program?
- If the student is completing a less-than-6-month English program as a prerequisite for the International House Vancouver program, it is recommended to apply for a study permit at a visa office abroad.
- The study permit application should include both Letters of Acceptance for the English program and the subsequent International House Vancouver program.
- If the application is approved, the student will receive a study permit document, allowing them to continue their studies in Canada without interruption once they meet the English requirement for the college program.
- Alternatively, students can choose to enter Canada to complete their English requirement without a study permit, but it is crucial to have a study permit approved before starting the International House Vancouver program.
- To ensure timely approval, it is advised to apply for the study permit at least five weeks in advance and be flexible with the program’s start date in case the study permit is not received on time.
Please visit CIC website for the latest updates & Visa related information.
Medical Insurance
Medical Insurance is required for students studying in Canada.
Options for medical insurance are:
- Purchase before departure in your own country (Please present to IH staff during Day 1 orientation)
- Purchase Guard Me Insurance from IH Vancouver before or after arriving in Canada
- Sign up for the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (available for students on study permits or working holiday visas after 6 months stay in Canada)
