Study Permit
For international students planning to study in Canada in January 2023, it is crucial to start the application process for a study permits as soon as possible. Processing times for applications made outside Canada are currently around 12 weeks, which can easily turn into four to six months when adding up the time to prepare the application, have it processed by the IRCC, and wait for the passport to be returned. This timeline is even longer if an application requires further review.
Here’s what international students can do to ensure they’re ready for the 2023 intakes.
Speak to an immigration lawyer about the application process and the necessary documents required to apply for a study permits. It’s essential to prepare a strong application that includes a detailed study plan. Students must also factor in the time they need to prepare for their move and travel to Canada. This involves booking flights, packing, saying goodbye to family and friends, finding accommodation in Canada, and settling in before the course starts.
If you are looking to speak to an immigration lawyer, then SayHomeCanada Immigration is here for you. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the process and help you prepare a strong application that includes a detailed study plan. We can also assist with other aspects of your move, such as finding accommodation in Canada and settling in before your course starts.
Start the study permits application as soon as possible. We recommend applying at least five months before the anticipated start date. By applying early, students can ensure they have their study permit in time for the 2023 intake. If the application is submitted later than 2022, students should have a backup plan in place should their study permit not be approved in time.
Monitor the processing times by checking the IRCC website periodically. Processing times are measured based on how long it takes the IRCC to process 80% of recent applications. The study permit processing time starts from the date the IRCC receives the application and ends when a decision is reached.
It’s essential to factor in the time it takes to receive a passport request, which requires applicants from visa-required countries to submit their original passport and applicants from visa-exempt countries to submit a photocopy of their passport to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Know what to do if a study permits isn’t approved in time. If the study permit isn’t approved in time for the intake, students will need to defer their course to a later intake. DLIs usually have multiple intakes throughout the year, so students should check with their school and the course they will be taking.
The different intakes to plan for are winter (January), Spring/Summer (May), and Fall (September). Students can obtain a new letter of acceptance from their DLI and provide a copy to the IRCC, letting them know about the new course start date as soon as possible.
In case the student decides not to pursue their studies, they can choose to withdraw from their course. They should speak to their DLI early on about this option, so they understand the process and deadlines to be entitled to a refund of any applicable tuition fees paid upfront. If they choose to withdraw from their course, they should also withdraw their study permit application.
To conclude, starting the application process for a study permits as soon as possible is crucial for international students planning to study in Canada in 2023. It’s essential to factor in the time it takes to prepare the application, have it processed by the IRCC, and wait for the passport to be returned.
Students must speak to an immigration lawyer and monitor the processing times regularly to ensure they have their study permit in time for the intake. It’s also crucial to have a backup plan in place should the study permit not be approved in time. By taking these steps, international students can make a smooth transition to Canada for their studies.
SayHomeCanada Immigration is a team of experienced and knowledgeable immigration lawyers who are dedicated to helping international students achieve their dreams of studying in Canada. With a deep understanding of the Canadian immigration system and a commitment to personalized service, SayHomeCanada Immigration provides comprehensive support to students at every step of the study permit application process.
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or have encountered difficulties with your study permit application in the past, SayHomeCanada Immigration can help you navigate the process with ease. With a proven track record of success and a client-focused approach, SayHomeCanada Immigration is the go-to choice for international students who want to ensure their study permit applications are prepared and submitted correctly and efficiently.
It is recommended that you apply for your study permit at least 5 months before your anticipated start date. Ideally, you should apply for your study permit as soon as you receive your letter of acceptance from your Designated Learning Institute (DLI).
