How work, study and visit works
For many people a temporary permit is step one. A study permit leads to a PGWP, the PGWP gives you Canadian work experience, and that experience opens the Canadian Experience Class or a provincial program.
The order matters. A program that does not qualify for a PGWP, or a job that is not skilled, can cost you a year or more. We see this most with private college programs and with PGWP holders who stay in TEER 4 and 5 jobs.
Every program in this area
The label on each card shows its status today. Open a guide for the rules, fees and a quick self-check.
Study permit
Study at a Canadian school under the 2026 cap and attestation rules.
Read the guide02OpenPost-Graduation Work Permit
An open work permit after you graduate from an eligible Canadian program.
Read the guide03Open, narrower rulesSpousal open work permit
An open work permit for the partner of some students and workers.
Read the guide04OpenLMIA work permit
Employer-specific work permits backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Read the guide05OpenLMIA-exempt work permit
Work permits under the International Mobility Program, with no LMIA.
Read the guide06OpenSuper visa
Parents and grandparents can stay up to five years at a time.
Read the guideStart from your situation
Side by side
| Permit | Main requirement | IRCC fee | Leads to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study permit | Acceptance and PAL | $150 | Through PGWP |
| PGWP | Eligible program and language test | $255 | Through CEC or PNP |
| Spousal open work permit | Principal in eligible program or job | $255 | Indirectly |
| LMIA work permit | Approved LMIA | $155 | Through CEC or PNP |
| Super visa | Income test and insurance | $100 | No |
What changed this year
Master's and PhD students at public institutions no longer need a provincial attestation letter.
Officers were told to refuse spousal work permits filed in a student's final term.
ESDC raised wage thresholds. Ontario's high-wage line is $36.92 an hour.
Study permit applicants must show $23,448 for living costs, up from $22,895.
Questions we get about work, study and visit
Is it harder to get a Canadian study permit in 2026?
Yes. The national cap is lower and most students still need a provincial attestation letter. Master's and PhD students at public institutions are exempt.
Can my spouse work while I study?
Only if you are in a master's program of 16 months or more, a doctoral program or certain professional programs.
Does an LMIA still help with PR?
It no longer adds Express Entry points since November 3, 2026, but Canadian work experience on an LMIA permit can still lead to PR.
How much money do I need for a study permit in 2026?
From September 1, 2026, $23,448 for one student for living costs, plus first-year tuition and travel.
Official sources
We read these before every update to this page.
Other service areas
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