Your study permit is the key to unlock all that UBC has to offer.
If you’re planning to study for more than six months in Canada, you need to have a valid study permit before you can begin your classes. This is true whether you’re coming to UBC from abroad, from another college/university, or from a high school in Canada.
When to apply
Apply for your study permit as soon as possible, as it can take several months to be approved.
How to apply
If you're coming from abroad
Apply for your initial study permit online, by mail, or in person at a Visa Application Centre. If you are a US citizen or permanent resident (or a resident of Greenland or St. Pierre and Miquelon), you can also apply at the border.
Learn more by visiting these sections on UBC’s International Student Guide:
If you're coming from a Canadian high school or college/university
You must apply to extend your study permit within 90 days of getting written notification that you’ve completed your program. Make sure to apply while you’re still in Canada and before your study permit expires.
If you are not in Canada during this time, you must apply for an initial study permit from outside Canada.
If you are transferring from a Canadian college/university without completing your program, you can continue to use your study permit if it is still valid but you must transfer your Designated Learning Institute (DLI) number.
How you’ll get your study permit
If you're coming from abroad
If your study permit application is approved, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will email you a Letter of Introduction (also known as 'port of entry' letter).
You must print and present this letter to the border officer when you arrive at the Canadian border or airport. The border officer will then issue your study permit.
If you're coming from a Canadian high school or college/university
If your study permit application has been submitted in Canada and is approved, IRCC will mail your study permit to your Canadian address.
Coming from abroad and wondering if you need a visa?
Study permits give you permission to study and stay in Canada. To enter Canada, depending on your country of citizenship, you may require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
If you do, IRCC will issue your TRV or eTA once your study permit is approved. When applying for your initial study permit, you do not need to apply separately for either the TRV or eTA.
If you have questions
The International Student Guide is your go-to for help on a wide variety of topics related to immigration, health insurance, and international student life.
If you still have questions, contact International Student Advising for help.
And finally…
Have a great summer! We look forward to saying a warm hello when you arrive on campus.
