Study Permit Document Checklist

Overview

Use this page as a document checklist for a Canadian study permit. Start with IRCC’s national list, then add visa-office instructions for the country where you apply. Incomplete or inconsistent packages are a frequent reason for delays and refusals.

Common situations

First application from outside Canada

Expect an LOA, identity documents, funds, PAL/TAL (or exemption proof), and often a letter of explanation. Country-specific forms may also apply.

Studying in Quebec

Plan for a CAQ from Quebec instead of a PAL/TAL, plus the federal study permit package.

Applying or extending from inside Canada

Document needs can differ (for example some PAL/TAL exemptions for same DLI and level). If your permit expired, see Study Permit Expired.

After a refusal

Rebuild the package against the refusal reasons. Do not simply re-upload the same incomplete set. See Reapply After Study Permit Refusal.

Core documents IRCC lists

Typical items on IRCC’s document pages include:

1. Letter of acceptance from your designated learning institution (DLI)
2. Proof of identity (passport or travel document)
3. Proof of financial support for tuition, living costs, and return travel
4. PAL/TAL when required, or proof of an exemption
5. For Quebec: usually a CAQ

IRCC also commonly recommends a letter of explanation describing why you want to study in Canada.

Letter of acceptance confirmation

For many post-secondary applicants, IRCC says the school will be asked to confirm the LOA is valid. If the school does not respond by the deadline, IRCC may return the application and refund the processing fee.

PAL/TAL or CAQ

• Outside Quebec: submit a PAL/TAL with the application unless you claim a published exemption with proof.
• Quebec: usually a CAQ instead of a PAL/TAL.
• Restoration as a student: IRCC states a new PAL/TAL is needed even at the same DLI and level.

Details: PAL/TAL Requirements.

Proof of funds documents

Build funds evidence using IRCC’s financial support page and your visa office’s extras. Living-cost figures changed for applications on or after September 1, 2025. Full breakdown: Study Permit Proof of Funds.

Other documents that may apply

Depending on your facts, IRCC may also require or recommend:

• medical exam results
• police certificates
• custodian documents for minors
• biometrics enrolment
• photos meeting IRCC specs
• translations of documents not in English or French

Always follow the document checklist generated in your IRCC account and any visa-office instructions for your country of residence.

Application steps

1. Confirm your school is a DLI and gather the LOA.
2. Resolve PAL/TAL, CAQ, or exemption proof.
3. Assemble funds evidence that matches tuition + living + travel.
4. Draft a letter of explanation consistent with your forms.
5. Download and complete the IRCC checklist for your application type.
6. Add country-specific extras before you pay and submit.

Common mistakes

• Submitting without a required PAL/TAL or exemption proof
• Ignoring visa-office instructions for your country
• Funds documents that do not add up to tuition + living + travel
• Names or dates that disagree across forms and passports
• Assuming the LOA alone is a complete file

Related guides

• Study Permit Requirements
• Study Permit Proof of Funds
• Study Permit Letter of Explanation
• Designated Learning Institutions (DLI)

This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.

Before you apply

• Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution
• Passport or travel document bio-data pages
• Proof of funds covering tuition, living costs, and travel
• PAL/TAL or exemption proof (or CAQ for Quebec)
• Letter of explanation drafted and consistent with forms
• Visa-office checklist for your country reviewed

Frequently asked questions

Is a letter of acceptance enough?

No. The LOA is usually required, but IRCC also assesses funds, attestation rules, identity, and temporary intent. See our blog on admission letters vs study permit approval.

Do I need a PAL/TAL with my documents?

Usually yes outside Quebec, unless you qualify for an IRCC-listed exemption and include proof. Quebec applicants generally need a CAQ.

Will IRCC verify my letter of acceptance?

For many post-secondary applications, IRCC says the school will be asked to confirm the LOA is valid. If the school does not respond by the deadline, the application may be returned.

Do I need a medical exam or police certificate?

Sometimes. IRCC’s eligibility and medical pages explain when exams or police certificates are required based on your situation and where you have lived.

What is the study permit fee?

IRCC currently lists $CAN 150. Always re-check before payment. Biometrics fees may also apply.

Is this legal advice?

No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.

See also

• Study Permit Requirements
• Study Permit Proof of Funds
• Study Permit Letter of Explanation

References

1. Get the right documents
2. Proof of financial support
3. Provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL)
4. Who can apply (eligibility)

Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.