Canada Study Permit from Pakistan

Choose a Canadian school and program

Choose a school that is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Check the official DLI list before applying.

Apply for admission

Apply directly to your chosen college or university and meet its academic, language and admission requirements.

Receive your Letter of Acceptance

You generally need a Letter of Acceptance from your DLI before applying for a study permit.

Check whether you need a PAL or TAL

Many study permit applicants need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). Some applicants are exempt, so check the current IRCC rules for your program.

Prepare proof of funds

You must show that you can pay your tuition, living expenses and transportation without relying on work in Canada.

Current reference: For applications on or after September 1, 2026, IRCC lists CAD $23,448 for one person's first-year living expenses outside Quebec. Tuition and transportation are additional.

Prepare your documents

• Valid passport or travel document
• Letter of Acceptance
• PAL/TAL if required
• Proof of financial support
• Letter of explanation is recommended by IRCC
• Any additional documents requested for your circumstances

Apply online through IRCC

Create or sign in to the official IRCC account, complete the application, upload your documents and pay the required fees.

Give biometrics if required

If IRCC requires biometrics, you will receive instructions. Follow the biometric instruction letter and use an official collection location.

Wait for IRCC processing

IRCC reviews the application and may request additional documents, a medical examination or other information depending on your circumstances.

If your application is approved

Applicants outside Canada receive documents explaining their approval and what they need to travel. Follow IRCC's instructions carefully and do not assume an approval letter itself is the study permit.

Prepare to travel to Canada

Carry the documents IRCC tells you to bring, including your passport and study-related documents. A border services officer makes the final decision on entry and, when applicable, issues the study permit.