Immigration

Before you arrive in Canada, you will need to get your documents in order. This first step depends on what country you are coming from, what you are coming here for and how long you plan to stay.

Where do I start?

It is your responsibility to obtain the correct documents from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and to abide by their conditions.

From outside Canada, you can contact the visa office at the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate for assistance. Refer to the Canadian Visa Offices webpage for a list of visa offices around the world and visit your visa office's website for specific local instructions. From within Canada, you can visit a CIC office or phone the CIC call centre toll free at 1-888-242-2100.

If you plan to visit other countries, either on your way to Canada or during your time at UVic, you should also inquire about the necessary immigration documents before leaving home.

What will I need?

Study permit

Most international students will need to obtain a study permit before beginning their studies in Canada. Visit the Study Permit Requirement webpage to verify whether or not you require a study permit. Even if you don't, we recommend that you apply for one. It will make things much easier if you want to extend your stay in Canada, continue your studies or search for employment on campus. Detailed instructions and application kits are available on the Study Permit Application webpage.

TIP: The application process for CIC documents can take a long time in some countries, so it is important to apply as soon as you receive your admission letter from UVic.

When your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction confirming the approval. This letter is not a study permit. It is proof that your study permit application was approved, and it authorizes the issue of a study permit at any Canadian port of entry.

I already have a study permit: Be sure to check the expiry date of your study permit as it may need to be extended. If you are coming to UVic from a Canadian high school, you will also need to change the conditions of your study permit before starting classes at UVic. Detailed instructions and application kits are available on the Study Permit Extension Application webpage.

Students with families: If family members will accompany you to Canada you should include them in your study permit application. The spouse or common-law partner of an international student with a study permit can apply for a work permit after entering Canada as a visitor. More information is available on the Work for Partners webpage.

Temporary resident visa

Students from many countries will require a temporary resident visa (TRV) in order to enter Canada. Visit the Temporary Resident Visa Requirement webpage for a list of countries and territories whose citizens require at TRV. Detailed instructions and application kits are available on the Temporary Resident Visa Application webpage.

When your application is approved, your passport will be returned to you with a TRV sticker inside.

I am also applying for a study permit: Students who are applying for a study permit do not need to apply for a TRV separately; one will be issued automatically.

Students who are considered minor children

In the province of British Columbia anyone under the age of 19 is considered to be a minor. A custodian arrangement must be in place for all minor children who require a study permit. Visit the Minor Children webpage for details on custodian arrangements. UVic will not take on the role of custodian for any international students. Most international students resolve this issue by asking someone they already know in Canada to take on this role. Others pay agents or make arrangements through a cultural or religious organization.

Double-check your documents

To avoid problems later on, make sure your name is spelled correctly on all documents and that all other information is accurate. If anything is incorrect, request that the issuing visa office correct the document before you travel to Canada. Unless you are a citizen of the United States, Greenland or St. Pierre and Miquelon you must not travel to Canada until you have obtained your letter of introduction and your TRV (if required).