Temporary Residence
Study permits, work permits, visitor visas, and more for your temporary stay in Canada
Study Permits
We guide students from application to settlement, ensuring a smooth academic journey in Canada.
Application Process
- 1
Obtain a Letter of Acceptance
Secure admission from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- 2
Acquire a PAL/TAL
Request and receive the attestation letter from the respective provincial or territorial authority.
- 3
Prepare Necessary Documents
Gather all required documents, including proof of financial support, valid passport, and any additional documents specified by the visa office.
- 4
Submit Application Online
All applicants must apply online for a study permit, unless they are unable to do so due to a disability or other valid reasons.
- 5
Await Decision
Processing times may vary; applicants can check current processing times on the IRCC website.
Specific Guidelines of IRCC on Study Permits
As of February 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has specific guidelines for international students wishing to change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI), modify their program of study, or extend their study permit. Below is a summary of the current policies:
Changing Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
Effective November 8, 2024, students intending to transfer to a different DLI must apply for a new study permit before commencing studies at the new institution. This change ensures that the study permit accurately reflects the student's current educational institution. The new DLI must be listed on the study permit; studying at a DLI not specified on the permit is not permitted.
Changing Programs of Study
If you plan to change your program of study within the same DLI, you are not required to obtain a new study permit. However, it's essential to ensure that your new program aligns with the conditions of your existing permit. Maintaining full-time student status and adhering to any work conditions outlined in your permit is crucial. Always consult with your institution's international student advisor to ensure compliance with IRCC regulations.
Extending Your Study Permit
To continue studying in Canada beyond the expiration of your current study permit, you must apply for an extension. It's recommended to submit your application up to six months before your permit expires, ideally at least three to four months prior. Applications must be submitted online through the IRCC Secure Account. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of enrolment, and financial support evidence. Processing times can vary, so early application is advisable.
Important Considerations:
- Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL): As of January 2025, most study permit applicants are required to include a PAL or TAL with their application. This letter confirms the allocation of a study permit slot by the respective province or territory. Applications without a PAL/TAL may not be processed.
- Compliance with Permit Conditions: Regardless of changes in your study plans, it's imperative to comply with the conditions outlined in your study permit. This includes maintaining full-time enrolment and not engaging in unauthorized work.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official IRCC website or consult with your institution's international student services.
Our Services:
Inclusions:
- Authorised representation to IRCC
- Document prep guidance
- Complete document review and management of application and deadlines
- Continued follow-up and correspondence with IRCC
- SOP preparation
- We may also assist in the College/University admission process
Work Permit Applications and Visit Visa Applications are applied and charged for separately
Correspondence:
Most communication will be done over emails. However, virtual meetings can be scheduled on request if you need to speak to a consultant.
Validity:
Service valid until decision outcome
Charges:
CAD 500
*Prices are suggestive and subject to change based on the complexity of each case
Post Graduate Work Permit
Apart from the generous opportunities that Canada offers its International Students, the most promising advantage of studying in Canada is the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), issued upon completing a post-graduate program at a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). The duration of the PGWP depends on the length of the course attended (details below).
As of February 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has established specific guidelines for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Below is a detailed summary of the latest rules:
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a PGWP, applicants must meet the following conditions:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Institution | Graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with a program that is PGWP-eligible. Not all programs at DLIs are eligible; verify your program's status. |
| Program Duration | Complete a study program of at least 8 months in length. |
| Full-Time Status | Maintain full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of the program, with exceptions for: final academic session (part-time status allowed), authorized leave, or part-time status between March 2020 and the fall 2020 semester due to COVID-19. |
| Application Timing | Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation (e.g., transcript, official letter) from the institution indicating program completion. |
| Study Permit Validity | Ensure your study permit was valid at some point during the 180 days before applying. |
Note: You are ineligible for a PGWP if you have previously been issued one, studied English or French as a second language, took general interest or self-improvement courses, received certain scholarships requiring return to your home country, completed over 50% of your program through distance learning (exceptions apply for COVID-19), or studied at a non-Canadian institution in Canada.
Application Process
The application process involves:
- 1
Submission Method
Apply online through the IRCC portal. As of June 21, 2024, applications at a port of entry are no longer accepted.
- 2
Required Documents
Include proof of program completion (degree, diploma, official letter, or transcript), proof of full-time status during studies, and, for applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024, proof of language ability.
- 3
Processing Time
Varies; check the IRCC website for current estimates.
Permit Duration
The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of your study program:
| Program Length | PGWP Validity |
|---|---|
| Less than 8 months | Not eligible for PGWP |
| 8 months to less than 2 years | Valid for up to the same length as your study program |
| 2 years or more | Valid for 3 years |
Note: Starting February 15, 2024, graduates from master's degree programs of less than 2 years (minimum 8 months) may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.
Special Cases
Considerations for unique situations:
| Scenario | Details |
|---|---|
| Accelerated Programs | If you complete your program in less time than its normal length, you may still receive a PGWP valid for the full length of the program. |
| Distance Learning | Time spent studying outside Canada between March 2020 and August 31, 2022, due to COVID-19, can count toward PGWP eligibility, provided other criteria are met. |
| Transfers Between Institutions | If you transferred between institutions, the combined length of study must be at least 8 months, with at least one institution being a DLI. Time spent at a non-DLI does not count toward PGWP eligibility. |
For comprehensive and up-to-date information, refer to the official IRCC Post-Graduation Work Permit page.
Our Services
Inclusions:
- Authorised representation to IRCC
- Document prep guidance
- Complete document review and management of application and deadlines
- Continued follow up and correspondence with IRCC
Correspondence:
Most communication will be done over emails. However, virtual meetings can be scheduled on request if you need to speak to a consultant.
Validity:
Service valid until decision outcome
Charges:
Please contact for specific charges for this service.
Spousal Open Work Permit Process
The spouses of PGWP holders in certain cases, can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). As of January 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated the policies regarding Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP).
Determine Eligibility
To be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit, the applicant must:
Relationship Criteria:
Be the spouse or common-law partner of a principal applicant who:
- Holds a valid work permit or has been approved for one.
- Is authorized to work in Canada without a work permit.
- Has employment in a high-skilled occupation classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0 or 1, or select occupations in TEER categories 2 or 3.
Starting January 21, 2025, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if you have a valid study permit and you're either:
- studying in a master's degree program of 16 months or longer
- studying in a doctoral degree program
- participating in an eligible program, or
- studying in one of the following professional degree programs at a university:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- Bachelor of Nursing (BN)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
Duration of Employment:The principal applicant's employment authorization must be valid for at least 16 months from the date the SOWP application is received.
Residence:Both the principal applicant and the spouse or common-law partner must reside or plan to reside in Canada during the employment period.
Application Process
- 1
Gather Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or evidence of common-law partnership.
- Principal Applicant's Employment Details: Copy of the principal applicant's work permit, employment offer, and proof of employment in an eligible occupation.
- Proof of Status in Canada: Copies of passports, visas, or other immigration documents.
- Additional Supporting Documents: As specified by IRCC, which may include financial statements, proof of residence, etc.
- 2
Submit Application
Applications for a Spousal Open Work Permit can be submitted online through the IRCC portal. Ensure all forms are accurately completed and all required documents are uploaded. Pay the applicable fees, which include the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
- 3
Application Processing
Processing times may vary. Applicants can check the current processing times on the IRCC website. During this period, additional information or documents may be requested by IRCC.
- 4
Receive Decision
Once a decision is made, applicants will be notified through their IRCC online account.
- If Approved: The open work permit will be issued, allowing the spouse or common-law partner to work for any employer in Canada.
- If Refused: A letter will be provided outlining the reasons for refusal.
- 5
Begin Employment in Canada
Upon approval and receipt of the open work permit, the holder is authorized to seek and commence employment with any Canadian employer, subject to standard employment regulations and conditions.
For detailed information and updates, refer to the official IRCC page on Open Work Permits for Spouses and Common-Law Partners.
Our Services
Applying for a Spouse Open Work Permit is a crucial step toward supporting your spouse's journey in Canada, and we're here to make the process easy and hassle-free. Our comprehensive service includes:
Inclusions:
- Authorized representation to IRCC: We serve as your authorized representative, ensuring that all communication with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is handled professionally and accurately.
- Document preparation guidance: Our experienced team provides expert advice on preparing documents to support your Super Visa application, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
- Complete document review and management: We meticulously review and manage all documents related to your application, ensuring that nothing is overlooked and all deadlines are met.
- Continued follow-up and correspondence with IRCC: We communicate with IRCC on your behalf, providing updates and addressing any queries or concerns that may arise during the application process.
Correspondence:
While most communication will be conducted via email for convenience and efficiency, we understand that some matters may require a more personal touch. Virtual meetings can be scheduled upon request, allowing you to speak directly with a consultant to address specific needs or questions.
Validity:
At LeoStar Immigration, service remains valid until a decision outcome is reached on your Spouse Open work Permit application, ensuring that you have ongoing support throughout the entire process.
Charges:
The charges for this service are based on the complexity of each case.
Visitor Visas
Travel to Canada with ease. We help individuals, business visitors, and families navigate the visa process.
Pathway:
- Determine the purpose of travel
- Submit an application with proof of ties to the home country and financial stability
- Provide biometrics if required
- Await visa processing and approval
Charges: The fees for this service are based on the complexity of each case.
Super Visas
Designed for parents and grandparents, this visa allows extended stays with loved ones.
Pathway:
- Secure an invitation from a child or grandchild in Canada
- Obtain private medical insurance
- Submit the Super Visa application with proof of financial support
- Undergo a medical examination if required
Charges: The fees for this service are based on the complexity of each case.
Work Permits
Whether it's an open work permit or an employer-specific one, we assist with securing employment authorization.
Pathway:
- Secure a valid job offer
- Obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) if required
- Submit a work permit application
- Receive approval and begin employment in Canada
Charges: The fees for this service are based on the complexity of each case.
Need assistance with your temporary residence application? Our experts are here to help you navigate the process.
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