Depending on the length of study you wish take here at FLLC, that will determine what kind visa status you will be required to have.
- Any study program of up to six months: no study permit is required
- Programs longer than six months require a study permit
* Student visas – students are required by Canadian immigration to attend full time classes. F/T classes at FLLC are between 9am – 2 pm
* Visitor Visas – can attend full time or part time courses up to 6 months without student visa authorization (note: a visitor visa granted to some countries is only 3 months)
* Landed Immigrant – can be eligible for government funding – see LINC program
For those of you who are interested in studying for our one year program, students have to apply for a Student Visa in their home country if you live outside of Canada . You may obtain study permit forms in your country of origin at the Canadian Embassy, High Commission or Canadian Consulate. The Official Letter of Acceptance together with other documentation including the study permit fee should be submitted to the nearest visa office nearest you so that a valid Student Visa can be issued.
Before students apply for their student authorization they must have:
- A valid passport and travel documentation
- The Official Letter of Acceptance from FLBC.
- Proof that he/she has enough money to support himself/herself while in Canada.
- Information regarding the student's accommodation while staying in Canada . FLBC and FLLC offers a homestay program – for more information on the homestay program, click HERE
- Student visa application form from the Canadian Consulate and other necessary documentation
- Medical insurance. Please inquire with ISE if you need more detailed information about medical insurance while staying in Canada .
When reviewing your study permit application, a visa officer must be satisfied that you meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations and that you will only be in Canada temporarily. Once the visa officer is satisfied that all requirements are met, documentation will be provided to you so that you can obtain a study permit. As your study permit will normally be valid for the duration of your course, please ensure that your passport is also valid for that same period of time.
NOTE: A temporary resident visa may be required depending on your country of origin. Please visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada's web site at: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.html to see the list of countries that require a temporary resident visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to attend an interview?
After reviewing your application, a Visa Officer will decide if an interview is necessary. If so, the officer will contact you directly to set up a time and place for an appointment.
What happens when I arrive in Canada ?
When you arrive in Canada , you must inform officials at the port of entry that you are an International Student. At that point, you will show your Passport and a Study Permit, or your Letter of Introduction and possibly a Visitor's Visa to the Immigration Officer. Please note that you must see an Immigration Officer NOT a Customs Officer. The Immigration Officer at the port of entry will determine whether you may enter Canada and how long you may stay. You must either leave Canada on or before the date set by the Immigration Officer or have your status extended by an Immigration Office in Canada .
May I leave Canada and return?
Yes. However, should your Study Permit expire while you are out of Canada , you may not be allowed to return to study. If you initially required a Visitor Visa in addition to a Study Permit, you will be able to return to Canada providing your Visa, Passport and Study Permit are valid.
How do I obtain an extension of my Study Permit?
If you wish to extend your Study Permit, you can do so within Canada . ISE can assist you with this, or you can contact the nearest Canada Immigration Center yourself at least two months before the expiry of your Permit, and ask for an application to be mailed to you. All applications for Study Permits from within Canada must be mailed to and processed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada's central processing center in Vegreville , Alberta Their fax is: (403) 632-8165.
How long will it take to get a Study Permit?
Most applications can take between four to six weeks, but depending on your country of origin, it will vary. We recommend you apply at least three months in advance. Make sure all required documents are included.
Do I need medical insurance before I come to Canada?
An Immigration Officer may request proof of your ability to pay for health insurance. ISE can provide information and assistance for you, and will help you register and pay the fees on arrival.
How do I change from a Visitor's Visa to a Study Permit while in Canada?
To change your status from that of visitor to student, you need to submit an application for a Study Permit at a Visa Office abroad. You may have to leave Canada if you are called for an interview to determine your eligibility. This process can take four to six weeks.
What can I do if my Study Permit has been refused?
There is no appeal process, but you can apply again at a later time. |