To study in Canada, students must have a visa and a study permit. So what is the difference between Study Permit and Visa? Let us tell you about the "Study Permit" and "Visa" for studying in Canada.

The difference between study permit and visa

1. "Study Permit"

Refers to the document proof that you can live in Canada as a student. It contains information about the institution, major, and time allowed to study in Canada. If the "study permit" expires and is not renewed, the student must leave Canada. Otherwise, it is illegal to stay and face the possibility of repatriation. After international students enter Canada to obtain a "study permit", they must pay attention to the relevant expiry date and go through the renewal procedures in time.

2. "Visa" 

It is a document that allows international students to enter Canada. If the international student is already in Canada, even if the visa has expired, if the "study permit" is still valid, you can still legally study in Canada. If you return to your home country, you will not be able to return to Canada without this visa.

Is it allowed to enter Canada in September after getting a student visa because of COVID restrictions?

If you are an international student with a study permit before or on March 18, or a letter approving your study permit, you are exempt from travel restrictions. But it does not mean that you can enter Canada immediately, because before you board the plane and when you enter Canada, you must provide sufficient materials to prove that the purpose of your travel to Canada is not random, but necessary, and is irreplaceable. IRCC's website mentions which circumstances are necessary for international students to travel, you must pay attention to what kind of circumstances you must go to Canada. In short, first of all, you must be able to meet the travel exemption; while there is a travel exemption, you must also meet the purpose of studying in Canada.

The current practice is to:

When you get the notification letter of the first stage, you can contact the school and ask the school to evaluate whether it is possible to start online learning at home in your country. If the length of study does not exceed 50% of the total academic system of all courses, it will not affect the length of the work visa after graduation in the future.

Things to do after entering Canada

1. Passing through customs

This year’s situation is special. There are more materials to be submitted when checking in and clearing customs, so the time will be a little longer than before. Remember to reserve a little more time to arrive at the airport. The situation varies from place to place. Generally, it is about three or four hours in advance.

*Materials to be submitted: valid study permit, valid visa, proof of study, quarantine plan, essential travel proof documents, etc. 

2. Mobile SIM

If you already have a mobile phone card in Canada before, you can ignore this one. Students who have not had a Canadian mobile phone card can apply for a CMlink Canada card in China. You can send it directly to your home. After getting off the plane and exiting the customs, find a place to insert the card into your mobile phone to activate it.

Compared with local operators in Canada, this will be more convenient. The monthly package without contract is also very cost-effective. After returning to China, you can roam for free. The price is cheaper than Fido and Koodo here. Many Canadian students use it because it is convenient. After activation, you can connect to the Internet. Google navigation or contact pick-up is very convenient.

3. Bank Cards 

As for choosing a bank, you can refer to your own situation. Generally, everyone will open two accounts: a checking account and a savings account. The checking account is used for daily expenses, and the savings account is mainly used to deposit money that will not be used in the near future. Open online banking at the same time as you apply for a bank card. In addition, there are some benefits for students to apply for a card. Remember to explain this point.

* Required materials: passport, study permit, admission notice (may be used)

4. SIN card

SIN stands for Social Insurance Number. Processing centres are frequently located close to the community. You can apply for it as soon as possible. It will typically be mailed within 4-6 weeks. You can only work part-time in Canada if you have this card.