SFU Graduate Student Handbook

Applying for a Study Permit

A study permit is required for students pursing studies longer than 6 months at SFU. Apply online for a study permit on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need your official letter of acceptance from SFU as well as the study permit information form issued by Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies to apply.

Apply early as the processing times vary between visa offices and fluctuate through the year. Estimated processing times can be found on the IRCC website.

Note that if you have not provided biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for an application to come to Canada in the past 10 years, you will be required to provide biometrics as part of your study permit application. More information about applying for a study permit is available on the ISS website.

Citizens and permanent residents of the US may apply online or at a Canadian port of entry (airport or border crossing).  

If you are already in Canada and need to extend or change the conditions of your stay, please see the ISS website and the Immigration, and Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

If you have questions or need assistance, connect with an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist.