Frequently Asked Questions: Study Permits

Q.  I am going to study in Canada for six (6) months and one (1) day, what kind of visa do I need?
A. If you are going to study in Canada for six (6) months or more, you must obtain a study permit.

Q.  I have a "green card" (permanent resident status in the United States), do I need a visa or a study permit to study in Canada?
A.  If you have a proof of your permanent residence ("green card") in the United States, you do not need a visa or study permit to study in Canada for a period of less than six (6) months. If you have a proof of your permanent residence ("green card") in the United States and you wish to study in Canada for a period of six (6) months or more, you must obtain a study permit.

Q.  What do I have to do if, once I am attending a course of less than six (6) months in Canada, I decide to extend my course to more than six (6) months?
A.  You must leave Canada and apply for a study permit in any Canadian Consulate or Embassy fully accredited outside Canada. If your course of less than six (6) months might be extended for a longer period, we recommend you to apply for a study permit before you travel to Canada.

Q.  Can I work in Canada while I hold a study permit?
A.  While you are in Canada on a study permit, you are not allowed to work, not even during the school holidays. This being said, if you are a full-time student and hold a valid study permit, you could be allowed to work only if you find yourself in one of the following situations:

• you wish to work as teacher's assistant;
• your work is part of your study program;
• you wish to work on the campus of the university where you are registered.

Q.  What scholarships does the Canadian Government offer to Colombians?
A.  Please consult the webpage Studying in Canada

Q. If my wife and my children want to accompany me to Canada during my studies, what kind of visa do they need?
A.  Your wife and your children can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa to accompany you for a period of less than six (6) months. If they wish to study or to work while you are studying, they should apply for a Study Permit or a Temporary Work Permit. If they wish to accompany you while your studies last six (6) months or longer, they can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa and apply for an extension of their stay once in Canada. Once in Canada, they can also apply for a Study Permit or a Temporary Work Permit while you are studying.