As an international student, you are required to obtain certain documentation from the Canadian embassies, visa offices or consulates abroad to study in Canada. Understanding another countries’ immigration system can be challenging, we are here to provide you with information that will help to make this process easier.
While we strive to keep our information current, the most authoritative source of information related to immigration can be found online at the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. York International only provides general information about immigration inquiries. Individuals may have unique situations. It is always good to contact the Immigration Specialist at York International or to consult IRCC at 1888-242-2100 For your immigration inquiries.
Provincial Attestation Letter Beginning January 22, 2024, most international students will require an attestation letter from the province or territory in which they plan to study with every new study permit application. Visit the Study Permit Application Information for more information and ongoing updates.
New Incoming Winter 2026 Students? Please visit this Study Permit Delay FAQ page if you are still waiting for your study permit.
Three Main Documents Needed to Study in Canada: Passport, Visas, and Permits
| Document Type: | Purpose: | When to Extend or Renew |
|---|---|---|
| Passport (Find out what to do if your passport is lost or stolen) | An official document issued by the government of your country of citizenship, certifying your identity. It is used when travelling to and from foreign countries. Must be valid for the duration of your time in Canada. | 6-12 months before expiration date (Please consult with your local embassy or consulate for renewal period) |
| Study permit | A study permit is a document that gives you permission to study in Canada on a temporary basis. If you will be studying in Canada for more than six months, you require a valid study permit before starting your program. Your study permit must remain valid throughout your duration of study. | 3-4 months before expiration date |
| Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) | Depending on your citizenship, you may require a Temporary Resident Visa or eTA to enter Canada. A valid TRV or eTA is required to re-enter Canada. | Before or after expiration date, depending on your travel plans. Typically after the extension of a study permit or receiving a post-graduation work permit. Note: do not leave Canada if your TRV has expired. |
Are You Under 18?
International students under 18 years old coming to Canada may require a legal guardian or custodian. According to IRCC, a custodian may or may not be needed for minors between 17 and 18 years old. This is at the discretion of the immigration officer who processes your study permit application. Visit IRCC's Studying in Canada as a minor page for information about custodians for minor international students studying in Canada. Please note that York University is not able to act as a custodian for any international student due to legal liabilities. You may want to seek advise from legal professionals in Toronto.
Are you attending the School of Continuing Studies?
International students enrolled in programs at the School of Continuing Studies have different immigration procedures than direct entry degree students. Please see the Immigration Information for School of Continuing Studies page.
Becoming a Permanent Resident as an International Student
If you have just become a permanent resident of Canada, or you believe that you are eligible for domestic tuition fee rates, visit Student Financial Services to see how to apply to change your fee category. If you need help updating your immigration status and changing your tuition fee category, please kindly contact the Registrar's Office.