Legal Guidance for International Students Coming to Ottawa
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is not only a hub for politics and culture—it’s also home to some of the country’s most respected academic institutions, including Carleton University, University of Ottawa, and Algonquin College. If you’ve been accepted into one of these institutions, your next step is applying for a Canadian study permit—a process that can be time-sensitive and complex.
At Kurzfeld Immigration Law, our student visa lawyers in Ottawa work with international students and their families to ensure every requirement is met, every form is completed properly, and every deadline is respected. We help reduce the stress so you can focus on your education goals.
What is a Study Permit and Why Do You Need One?
A study permit allows international students to legally stay in Canada and attend classes at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Many students refer to it as a “student visa,” but it’s important to note that a study permit is not a visa—it doesn’t grant entry into Canada.
Depending on your home country, you may also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) alongside your study permit. These are often issued after your permit is approved.
Study Permit Application Process for Ottawa-Bound Students
Getting your study permit approved means submitting a complete application that satisfies all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements.
You’ll need to show:
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- An acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada
- Proof of sufficient funds to pay tuition and cover living expenses
- Clean medical and criminal background records, if required
- A clear explanation of your educational intentions and plans after graduation
It’s recommended to apply at least 3 to 6 months before your start date, especially during peak periods like September and January.
Faster Processing Through the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
If you’re a legal resident of certain countries, you may be eligible to apply via the Student Direct Stream, which processes most applications in about 20 calendar days.
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Eligible countries include:
- India
- China
- The Philippines
- Pakistan
- Morocco
- Vietnam
- Senegal
Requirements include:
- An acceptance letter from a DLI
- Proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 CAD
- Valid IELTS/TEF scores
- Full payment of your first year’s tuition
Why Choose a Student Visa Lawyer in Ottawa?
Ottawa has a large international student population—and with it, a rising number of study permit rejections due to incomplete applications or lack of clarity around intentions. At Kurzfeld Immigration Law, we help students avoid the pitfalls by building a well-organized, persuasive application.
Our Ottawa immigration team assists with:
- New study permit applications
- Visitor visa or eTA submissions
- SDS application support
- Permit renewals and extensions
- Family and spousal visas
- Post-graduate legal options, including work permits and PR
We don’t just submit paperwork—we give you the legal strategy and support you need to stay on track.
Frequently Asked Questions –
Ottawa Student Permits
Do I need a study permit for short-term courses in Ottawa?
If your program is six months or less, you may not need a study permit. However, longer programs (including most university degrees and college diplomas) require one. We’ll assess your case and confirm the right path.
How much money do I need to show for my study permit application?
Generally, you need to show tuition fees for one year plus at least $10,000 CAD for living expenses. If you have dependents, you’ll need more. We help you prepare the financial proof correctly.
Can I stay in Ottawa after graduation?
Yes! With a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you can stay in Canada and work full-time. Many students use this pathway to gain Canadian experience and apply for permanent residency later.
What if I change schools after arriving in Canada?
You can change institutions, but they must also be Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). You must also update IRCC with your new school details to remain compliant.
Can I apply for a study permit from inside Canada?
Yes, certain individuals—like visitors or those on temporary status—may be eligible to apply for a study permit from within Canada. We’ll help determine your eligibility and file the correct documents.
Will I get a visa with my study permit approval?
In most cases, yes. A TRV or eTA is issued along with your study permit approval, allowing you to enter Canada legally. We ensure your application covers both.
Can I work while studying in Ottawa?
Yes. With the proper study permit conditions, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during academic breaks.
Speak with a Student Visa Lawyer in Ottawa Today
Studying in Canada is a life-changing opportunity—but only if you’re legally allowed to stay and attend your school. Our Ottawa-based team at Kurzfeld Immigration Law will help you take care of the paperwork, avoid unnecessary delays, and focus on the bright future ahead.
