How to Get Your Personal Reference Code on Study Permit

A Personal Reference Code is essential for international students studying in Canada. 

This unique code is obtained after completing an online eligibility assessment through the Canadian Government's Come to Canada tool.

To obtain a Personal Reference Code for a Study Permit application, follow these steps:

1. Visit IRCC's official website and access the Come to Canada tool.

2. Answer the questions to determine your eligibility for a Study Permit.

3. A Personal Reference Code is generated upon completion.

4. Create or sign into your IRCC account.

5. Input your Reference Code on the "Personal checklist" page.

Getting a Personal Reference Code simplifies the Study Permit application process. It saves time, customizes your application, and is a reference point for further communication with IRCC.

This article will thoroughly explain all the details regarding the Personal Reference Code.

What is a Canadian Visa Personal Reference Code?

A Canadian Visa Personal Reference Code is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned to each applicant during the visa application process. 

The Personal Reference Code is significant as it allows a smooth transition from eligibility assessment to the visa application process. It unlocks the applicant's profile and imports their questionnaire answers into the online application, saving time and reducing errors.

Applicants can find their Personal Reference Code following these guidelines:

• If you are eligible to apply, the Personal Reference Code will be displayed on the screen after you complete the questionnaire using the Come to Canada tool.
• Note down the Personal Reference Code or print the page for your records. You will need this code for your visa application.
• The code typically consists of a letter followed by nine digits (for example, J123456789) and should be kept confidential.
• Suppose you exit the questionnaire before noting down the code. In that case, you may need to retake the questionnaire to generate a new Personal Reference Code.

Personal Reference Code Example

After completing the Come to Canada online questionnaire, individuals are given a personal reference code for a Canadian visa. 

An example code could be "J123456789", but it's important to note that each code is unique and should not be used in actual applications.

The components of the Personal Reference Code represent the following:

• The first character is typically a letter of the alphabet and signifies a specific category or type of application.
• The following nine digits are a unique sequence of numbers assigned to the applicant.
• This combination of a letter followed by nine numbers ensures that each code is unique, helping to prevent mix-ups in the application process.

Where are the Personal Reference Codes Needed?

Personal Reference Codes are needed for the following types of applications and processes:

• Study Permit,
• Work Visa,
• Visitor Visa.

Study Permit

For a study permit, after determining eligibility through an online questionnaire, students receive a personal reference code. When starting an online study permit application, this code must be entered to transfer information from the eligibility tool to the application form.

Example: A prospective international student completes the eligibility assessment and receives a personal reference code such as SP123456789CN. It is emphasized that such a code is a mere illustration and holds no validity for actual study permit applications.

Work Visa

When applying for a work visa, the personal reference code bridges the gap between the initial eligibility assessment and the actual application. 

An eligibility code is generated for work visa applicants. It transfers their assessment information directly into their online application on the IRCC website.

Visitor Visa

Similarly, for a visitor visa, the personal reference code obtained from the eligibility tool commences the application process and auto-fills portions based on the individual's preliminary assessment.

The Personal Reference Code helps transfer applicants' information from the eligibility assessment to their visa application via the IRCC online system.

What Is a Personal Reference Code in Canada's Study Permit?

Individuals who complete the Come to Canada tool, an online questionnaire to assess their eligibility for studying in Canada, are given a personal reference code. 

This code allows applicants to initiate their Study Permit application online with the information they provided already filled in, thereby expediting the application process.

The Personal Reference Code is distinct from other codes or numbers applicants might encounter, such as:

• Unique Client Identifier (UCI): Assigned to individuals who have previously applied with IRCC.
• Application Number: Tracks each submitted Canadian visa or permit application.
• Express Entry Profile Number: Assigned to profiles completed through the Express Entry system.
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Reference Number: Required for assessing foreign educational credentials.

What Is the Main Difference Between an IEC Profile Number and a Personal Reference Code?

The IEC Profile Number is a unique identifier assigned to individuals who create a profile in the IEC system. It tracks and manages their participation in the IEC program, which allows youth to work and travel in Canada.

A Personal Reference Code is a unique code generated after completing the Come to Canada online eligibility tool. It's used to bridge the information from the eligibility tool to an actual application for various immigration programs, streamlining the application process.

Main Differences:

1. The IEC Profile Number is associated exclusively with the International Experience Canada program, while the Personal Reference Code can be used for various types of applications, including study and work permits or visitor visas.
2. The IEC Profile Number manages and tracks an individual's profile and application within the IEC program. In contrast, the Personal Reference Code initiates and facilitates the application process by importing information from the eligibility questionnaire into the application form.
3. The IEC Profile Number remains with the individual throughout their interaction with the IEC program. At the same time, the Personal Reference Code is a temporary code used at the beginning of the application process for transferring eligibility information.

Key Takeaways

• The Personal Reference Code is a unique identifier obtained after completing the Come to Canada online eligibility assessment.
• It is essential for individuals who wish to apply for Canadian immigration programs, including study and work permits or visitor visas.
• The code facilitates the transfer of information from the eligibility tool to the actual application on the IRCC website, improving efficiency and accuracy.
• The code typically consists of a letter followed by nine digits and is specific to the individual who receives it.
• Applicants must enter their Personal Reference Code into their IRCC account to import their questionnaire responses into their application.
• The code is a temporary tool used at the beginning of the application process. It should be noted immediately upon receipt, as it may not be retrievable later.
• The Personal Reference Code differs from other identifiers such as the UCI, Application Number, or IEC Profile Number, each serving a distinct purpose in Canadian immigration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Retrieve a Forgotten Personal Reference Code?

If you forget your Personal Reference Code after completing the Come to Canada questionnaire, you'll have to retake it. A new Personal Reference Code will be generated upon completion. 

Remember to note down or print the confirmation page with the new code. If you have already started an application with the old code, you must use the new one to continue.

Does the Personal Reference Code Expire?

Yes, the personal reference code is designed to expire. It is only valid for a specific period after it is generated. 

The applicant must use the code to start their online application for a study permit within 60 days from the issue date.

Can I Use the Same Personal Reference Code for Multiple Applications?

Each Personal Reference Code is intended for single use only and linked to a specific eligibility assessment. 

If you plan to submit multiple applications, complete the Come to Canada tool separately for each application type. Avoid reusing the same code to prevent confusion and potential errors.