Can a Visitor Study in Canada? All You Need to Know

Canada has always excelled in education, so it's no surprise it’s a center for international students who want to embark on a path to a world-class education and a promising future.

Does this also apply to visitors?

If you are one of them, you may be wondering what your rights are, what rules you should follow, and whether there might be any restrictions on you.

While this may seem long and arduous in your application, BorderPass can make the process much easier.

Curious to find out? Read on!

Visitor Visa vs. Study Permit in Canada

A visitor visa (temporary resident visa, or TRV) is an official document that meets the requirements for entry into Canada. However, if you want to study in Canada, you will need a permit to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) for over six months.

Let’s make it straightforward:

• ‍Visitor visa: A document by which you enter Canada‍
• Study permit: A document by which you stay in Canada and study at a DLI (sometimes called a student visa)

Apart from the strict rules, some exceptions allow you to study on a visitor visa if the school is not a DLI.

Can a Visitor Study in Canada?

Visitor is usually associated with a person who wants to visit Canada temporarily, whether for tourist purposes or to visit family. However, Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) admits the possibility of enrolling in part-time studies or study programs lasting six months or less, considering long-term visitors.

But as you are no stranger to, a study permit is your ticket to attending the entire program of DLI institutions.

Applying for a Study Permit As Though You are Outside Canada

You can apply for a study permit from outside Canada, but completing your application before arriving is generally advisable. So, when you come to Canada, it’s good to be prepared and enjoy the days before classes begin.

If you are applying on paper, it’s best to do it from your own country. But why waste time when Border Pass can do it on your behalf?

Nothing is better than applying it most efficiently and quickly.

Applying for a Study Permit After Completing a Prerequisite Program

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You can apply for a study permit if you are currently in Canada with an (eTA)/visitor visa. However, one crucial requirement to be eligible is to complete the pre-requisite program and submit an acceptance letter from DLI at the same time you apply to enter Canada as a temporary resident.

If you are unsure what a prerequisite program is, it points to your prior knowledge important for success in your subsequent studies.

Short-Term Studies on a Visitor Visa

If you're not quite ready to commit to a long-term study abroad program, we've covered you with Canada's most famous short courses! The programs are oriented towards in-demand skills in Canada. When choosing a program, consider study visa fees before applying.

You must submit the request within the first six months of your stay, and remember, you can study for a maximum of three months with a visitor visa.

Language Classes

There is a wide choice of language classes across Canada, whether it's English in a major city or French in a smaller French-speaking area. Such classes can significantly improve your language fluency and connect with students from diverse backgrounds worldwide. You'll simply discover your perfect match.

Workshops

Not just courses but also workshops can be the perfect way to express your creativity for jobs that are diverted to it. Whether workshops are artistically oriented, something like drawing, music, or production, there are always places that can attract your attention.

Seminars

Seminars, a significant part of a curriculum, are in demand in Canada as they enable you to improve your knowledge and understanding of the topic by addressing critical issues during the discussions.

Certificate Courses

Short courses in the form of certificate programs are all about a particular specialization, such as engineering, administrative studies, economics, or business studies. Even though choosing the perfect one is a tough call, it's job-oriented with more training and practical aspects that will prepare you for the labor market. 

Understanding the Canadian Education System

They say Canada has the best education system, which is a sufficiently justified reason to study and feel honored among thousands of international students.

Types of Learning Institutions in Canada

You may be thrilled by enrolling in a study program in Canada. Which strictly depends on the type of learning institution. 

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The wide range that can narrow down your options are:

• Colleges
• Universities Canada
• High school
• Primary and secondary institutions
• Elementary education
• Vocational school
• Language schools
• Alberta
• Polytechnics
• Baccalaureate and applied studies institution

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As you can see from the list, both older and younger students can be enrolled in learning institutions.

Limitations for Visitors

Even though Canada is a welcoming country for international students, there are some limitations if you are a visitor to Canada.

Restrictions on Course and Program Duration

Visitors to Canada who attend a course or program of study without a permit can stay for up to six months.

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But if you want to prevent that and continue your studies, you can apply for a study permit during your stay in Canada.

Ineligibility for Working On-Campus or Off-Campus

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You are eligible to work on-campus as a full-time student, having a valid study, but if you attend classes in English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL), you are not eligible to work off-campus.

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You can't be eligible for the off-campus work permit program if you apply the following:

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• If you are attending a study program of general interest that doesn’t fall under the academic, professional, or vocational training program
• If the study program is a prerequisite for enrollment at DLI

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Note: If you attend a degree program that meets the definition of an academic, professional, or vocational training program while also attending the ESL/FSL component, you may work off campus.

No Access to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program

You can't apply for PGWP if:

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• Have completed a program that, as a rule, lasts more than eight months.
• You have a previously issued work permit after graduation
• If you studied English or French as an additional language
• If you have taken general interest or self-improvement courses

Key Takeaways

• A visitor has a right to study in Canada but under certain circumstances
• There are specific rules when applying for a study permit as though you are outside Canada, and after completing a pre-requisite program
• You may choose between various short-term study programs and qualify for a wide range of jobs
• You must be aware of limitations regarding courses and program duration, but also work permits

FAQs

Can a Visitor in Canada Enroll in a Study Program?

Yes, by IRCC, long-term visitors may engage in occasional programs of study.

How Long can I Study in Canada as a Visitor Without a Study Permit?

Six months. Otherwise, you must have a study permit.

Can I Change My Visitor Status to a Student Status While in Canada?

Yes, but you must apply for a status change in that case.

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