No, you cannot directly convert your Canada visitor visa to a student visa. You must first apply for a study permit from within Canada to convert a visitor visa to a student visa and fulfill the eligibility requirements. As a visitor in Canada looking to study in a program with pre-requisite courses, you may need to complete the course before applying for a study permit. To be eligible for a study permit, you must be enrolled in a registered DLI (Designated Learning Institution) and submit evidence that you will exit Canada after the expiry of your permit.
*Looking to apply for a Canada tourist visa? Talk to experts at Y-Axis to assist you with the visa process.
Requirements to Apply for a Study Permit in Canada
You must meet the below requirements to apply for a study permit in Canada:
- An original and valid passport
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a registered Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Canada including tuition fees and other costs
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) (if required)
- A valid medical certificate (If required)
- A clear criminal record (if required)
*Want to apply for a Canada student visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the procedure.
Steps to transition from a Canada visitor visa to a student visa
Given below are the steps to follow to transition from a Canada visit/tourist visa to a student visa:
Step 1: Check if you are meeting the eligibility requirements before applying for a study permit [You can refer to the above section]
Step 2: Receive a valid LOA (Letter of Acceptance) from a DLI
Step 3: Apply for a study permit
Step 4: Complete the required fee payment
Step 5: Await the visa status
Note: It is important to ensure that you are maintaining a legal and valid status while awaiting your Canada student visa approval.
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