Three main documents to obtain to study in Canada: Passport, Visas, and Permits

Document Type: Purpose: When to Extend or Renew:

Passport An official document issued by the 6 months before expiration

government of your country of citizenship, date
(for lost or stolen certifying your identity. It is used when
passports click here) travelling to and from foreign countries.
Must be valid for the duration of your time
in Canada.

Study Permit A study permit is a document that gives you 2-3 months before expiration
permission to study in Canada on a date
temporary basis. If you will be studying in
Canada for more than six months, you
require a valid study permit for the duration
of your studies.
Please Note: Study permits will only be
issued to applicants studying at a
Designated Learning Institution (DLI). York
University is a designated learning
institution:
York University's Designated Learning
Institute (DLI) Number is O19361109242 (O
stands for Ontario).

Temporary Resident Depending on your citizenship, you may
Visa (TRV) require a Temporary Resident Visa or eTA to
or enter Canada. As of November 10th, 2016,
eTA (Electronic Travel visa-exempt foreign nationals are required
Authorization) to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization
(eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada.
Before or after expiration date,
depending on your travel plans.
Typically after the extension of
a study permit or receiving a
post-graduation work permit.
Note: do not leave Canada if
your TRV has expired.
 To work in Canada as a student working off-campus

Full-time international students can work off-campus without a work permit:

 up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and

 full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays or spring break.

To qualify, you must:

 have a valid study permit,

 be a full-time student,

 be enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level or, in Quebec, a vocational
program at the secondary level, and

 be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma
or certificate that is at least six months in duration.

You must stop working on the day you no longer meet the eligibility requirements listed above (e.g., if you’re no
longer a full-time student during an academic session).

Study Permits
A study permit authorizes you to study in Canada legally. International students will
receive their Study Permits in the form of a paper document which will usually be
attached into your passport at the Canadian port of entry.

PLEASE NOTE:

1. Study permits will only be issued to applicants studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). York
University is a designated learning institution:
York University's Designated Learning Institute (DLI) Number is O19361109242 (O stands for
Ontario)
2. Ensure that you have entered your Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Universal client ID
(UCI) number onto your student record (click “Update my international student information” from My
Student Records on My Online Services). This will enable York International to assist you as
necessary.

If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada and will be attending
York University for more than 6 months, you must obtain a study permit from
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).
If your program of study lasts six month or less in Canada, you do not need a study
permit. However, if you think you may study for a longer time, you should consider
applying for one prior to your arrival because the process of initial study permit can be
lengthy and complicated.

Sample of Letter of Introduction

If your study permit application is approved, you will be issued a Letter of Introduction
(see example below). You must present this letter to the border officer when you enter
Canada, and your study permit will be printed and issued at the border.

A study permit does not authorize re-entry. Depending on your citizenship, you may
require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA to enter and re-enter Canada. Please
click here to find out whether you need to obtain a TRV or eTA.

Most newly-accepted international students can now apply for their study permits online
from their home country. You are required to apply for the initial study permit before
coming to Canada. Instructions on initial study permit application can be
found here. Processing time varies depending on the processing centre location.
Please allow a minimum of one to six months.

Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. You must apply before you travel and
make sure you have all the documents we need before you apply.

What is a study permit?

The study permit is a document we issue that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning
institutions (DLI) in Canada.

While studying in Canada under a study permit you must:

 always be enrolled at a DLI

 make progress towards completing your program
 respect any conditions listed on your study permit
 stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements and
 leave Canada when your permit expires

Depending on your case, there may be conditions on your study permit such as:

 the level of studies you can attend

 if you are allowed to work in Canada
 if you can’t travel within Canada
 the date you must stop studying

Note: Your study permit is not a visa. It alone doesn’t allow you to enter Canada. You may also need
a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If so, we will issue it as part of
your study permit application.
How long can you stay in Canada with a study permit?

A study permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, plus an extra 90 days. This extra
time lets you prepare to leave Canada or apply to extend your stay.

 If you can’t finish your courses before the date on your permit, you must apply to extend your
stay as a student.
 If you finish your studies early, your permit will stop being valid 90 days after you complete
your studies (no matter what day is printed on the study permit).

You have completed your studies either

o on the date you get the first notification from your school (such as an email, letter,
transcript, etc.) or
o when you get your degree, diploma or certificate.

You must prove provide proof of the date you got one of these.

Note: If you can’t prove the date you were first notified by your school, we will use the earliest issue
date on the document. We may need to confirm this date with your school.

Can you go back home while studying?

If you plan to leave Canada during a scheduled break (such as the summer, or winter holidays and
spring break), you may need to show proof you are enrolled in your school when you return to Canada.
If you came here on:

 a visa, you also need to make sure it is still valid.

 an electronic travel authorization (eTA), and you leave and return to Canada by air, you will
need a new eTA.

Your study permit is not a visa.

People who don’t need a permit to study in Canada

Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. The cases below are exceptions.

Short-term studies (six months or less)

You can study at any school in Canada without a study permit if:

 your course or program is for six months or less

 your studies aren’t part of a longer program and
 you will complete all your studies within the time we approved you to stay in Canada (usually six
months after you enter).

Note: you will need a study permit if you:

 are going to study for longer than six months or

  won’t be able to complete your program without having to extend your stay in Canada.

Family or staff of foreign representatives

You may not need a study permit if you are a family member or staff member of a foreign
representative to Canada accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC). Your embassy can
contact GAC to find out if you need one.

Members of foreign armed forces

If you are a member of a foreign armed force in Canada on official duties, you don’t need a study
permit. If your family members (including minor children), want to study in Canada, they may need one.

Registered Indians in Canada

You don’t need a study permit if you are a citizen of another country who has Registered Indian
status in Canada.

Minor children in Canada

Minor children don’t need a study permit if they:

 are in kindergarten
 are refugees or refugee claimants
 have parents who are refugees or refugee claimants or
 want to go to pre-school, primary or secondary school, and are already in Canada with a parent
who is allowed to work or study in Canada.

Note: When minor children studying in Canada without a permit reach the age of majority (turn 18 or 19
depending on the province or territory), they must apply for a permit if they want to keep studying.
Learn more about minors studying in Canada.

Why get a study permit if you are exempt?

You may want to apply for a study permit even if you don’t need one. To be eligible to apply for a study
permit, your course or program must be from a DLI. If you decide to apply for a study permit even
though you are exempt, you should include a letter of explanation that says why you want one.

Reasons to apply for a study permit include being able to:

Keep studying while you renew your permit

 If you get a study permit before you come to Canada: you can renew your permit and keep
studying in Canada while waiting for your new permit because you have implied status.
 If you don’t have a study permit: you can apply for a study permit from inside Canada, but you
can’t start your program until you get the permit.

This rule also applies for prerequisite courses, when you get accepted to a program under the condition
that you take and pass certain courses (conditional acceptance).
Work part-time on-campus

You can work part-time on-campus if you are registered as a full-time student at a college or university.

Before you apply

Before you apply for a study permit, you need the following:

 an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI)

 a valid passport or travel document

Find out which documents you need before you apply for a study permit.

You also must do the following:

 show proof that you have enough money to pay for your:
o tuition fees
o living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada and
o return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
 be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and not be a risk to the security of Canada. You
may have to provide a police certificate.
 be in good health. You may need to complete a medical exam.
 convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies.

Note: If your school asked you to take some courses before they will accept you into the main program
(conditional acceptance), we will only issue your study permit for the length of these courses. When you
get accepted into the main program, you can apply to extend your stay as student from within Canada.

How to apply

Generally, you must apply for a study permit before you come to Canada. Some people can apply for
a study permit from within Canada. In some cases, you can apply when you arrive in Canada at the
port of entry. Make sure you understand which option is available to you.

 Applying within Canada

 Applying outside Canada
 Applying at the port of entry

Applying for a study permit within Canada

You can apply for a study permit within Canada, if you are 1 of the following:

 a minor child in primary or secondary school

 an exchange or visiting student
 a student who has completed a short-term course or study program, which is a condition for
being accepted at a DLI
 someone who holds a temporary resident permit (TRP) valid for at least 6 months, or their
family member
  a spouse or common-law partner (and their family members) being sponsored to immigrate,
who are:
o in Canada, and
o have applied for permanent residence, if eligible
 a person with a study permit from a visa office abroad, and the permit was issued before you
got to Canada, who wants to keep studying
 the family member of:
o athletes on a Canadian-based team
o media representatives
o members of the clergy, or
o military personnel assigned to Canada
 a family member or private staff member of a foreign representative who is properly
accredited (90 days before or after you are no longer authorized to study without a study
permit), or
 a foreign national or their family member with a valid study or work permit, who wants to stay in
Canada longer to study

You need to apply to extend your stay in Canada as a student.

Remember that you can’t stay in Canada after your passport expires. If you renewed your passport
since you entered Canada, you have to submit photocopies of both your new passport and the stamp
placed in your old passport when you apply.

Apply for a study permit outside Canada

You must apply for a study permit.

 If you are in Canada and don’t belong to one of the groups above: you must apply in person or
by mail at the visa application centre (VAC) in Los Angeles.
 If you are outside Canada: apply online or use a paper application in a country where you are
lawfully admitted.

Note: If you need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or visa, we will issue it automatically at the
same time as your study permit. You don’t need to apply separately or pay another fee.

Apply online

To apply online you must have the following:

 access to a scanner or digital camera to make electronic copies of your documents for
uploading, and
 a valid credit card to pay with

Note: If you give an email address on your application, check it regularly for messages about your
case. Some spam filters block these emails. If you are not sure you are getting our emails, please
check your account on a regular basis.

Determine your eligibility and apply online

Apply on paper

You can get help with your paper application at your nearest VAC or follow the steps below to prepare
your application yourself:

1. Get the application package

The package includes the application guide and all the forms you need to fill out. Download the
application package.

Find out which documents you will need to apply. Make sure you include them with your application.

Fill in the forms carefully and completely. We will not process incomplete application packages. We
will return them to you.

2. Pay your application fees

In most countries, you must pay application fees in Canadian dollars. More about this and the methods
you can use to pay are in the pay your fees tool.

If you apply on paper at a VAC, you will have to pay the VAC services fees. These fees are not
included in your IRCC application fees.

3. Submit your application

Check the status of your application

Processing times vary depending on where you applied. See the status of your application.

The visa office will review your application to make sure you:

 completed it correctly and

 included all the documents we need.

If your application is incomplete, we may refuse it.

If your application is complete, the visa office will review it and decide if you need an interview. If so, the
officer will tell you the time and place.

Updating your application

If you move or change your address, telephone number or any other contact information after you
apply, you must tell us.

If we approve your application

We will send you:

  a letter of introduction to confirm. This letter isn’t your study permit. You need to show it to the
immigration official when you arrive in Canada.
 an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) to enter
Canada:
o if you are from a country where you need an eTA, the letter of introduction will include
information about your eTA. Also, the eTA will be:
 linked to your passport. It is important that you travel with the passport you used
when you applied for your study permit.
 valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
o if you are from a country where you need a visitor visa, the visa will:
 be in your passport. You must enter Canada before it expires.
 show if you can enter Canada only once (a single-entry visa) or if you can enter
Canada multiple times (a multiple-entry visa).

If we refuse your application

We will send you a letter explaining why. Reasons we may refuse it include if you didn’t:

 show proof that you have enough money to support yourself while studying in Canada
 pass the medical exam if you needed one
 convince the visa officer that your main purpose in Canada is to study
 convince the visa officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your study period.

If you have questions about why you were refused, contact the visa office that sent the refusal letter.

Waiting for a decision

Your study permit can expire while you are waiting for a decision on an extension. In this case, you still
have temporary resident (student) status.

This is known as implied status, and it lasts until you get a decision on your application (as long as you
don’t leave Canada). You can keep studying under implied status.

Travelling outside Canada while waiting for a decision

You can leave Canada and come back. Your study permit is not a visa. You need a valid visa or
eTA to return, unless you are coming back from a trip where you visited the United States or St-Pierre
and Miquelon only.

When you return:

 You can come back as student if your permit is still valid.

 You may be allowed to come back as a visitor, if we are still processing your study permit
extension.
o You can’t study until we extend your study permit. The officer at the border may ask
you to prove you have enough money to support yourself in Canada.
 You may be allowed to come back as a student, if we extended your study permit while you
were away.
 You may be asked to apply for a new study permit if you are a national or a permanent resident
of the U.S. or a resident of Greenland or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
  It is possible that you will not be able to enter Canada.

The officer may ask you for a copy of the application, the fee payment receipt, and other documents to
prove you applied for an extension.

Prepare to arrive

When you arrive in Canada, a Government of Canada officer will meet you and:

 ask to see your passport or travel documents,

 ask you a few questions, and
 make sure you meet the requirements to enter Canada.

You will also have to show the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay.

Before you arrive, read the pre-departure guide for tips and information about student life in Canada.

Primary Inspection Kiosks

Check with your school or training facility to see if you need to prove your entry into Canada. If you
need proof of entry, you have to get your passport stamped from a border services officer before
leaving the airport. Canada’s international airports with Primary Inspection Kiosks have a new process
in place to stamp passports.

Presenting your documents

You will need to show:

 a valid passport or travel document

 the letter of introduction the visa office sent you when they approved your study permit (this
letter has your permit reference number which we use to issue your study permit)
 a copy of the acceptance letter your school sent you
 proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada
 letters of reference or any other documents the visa office where you applied told you to bring
and either a valid:
o eTA. If you have an approved eTA, it will be linked to the passport that you used to apply
for your study permit or
o temporary resident visa.

Children under 18 should have valid identification with them. The documents a minor child needs to
present depend on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone. Find out about
the requirements for minor children.

Carry these items and all other valuable papers, cash and traveller’s cheques with you at all times.
Don’t put them in your checked luggage.

You may not be allowed into Canada if any of your documents are missing or if any of the information
on your application or letters of reference is incorrect.
The officer will stamp your passport or let you know how long you can stay in Canada. The period is
usually six months. In some cases, the officer may limit or extend this period to cover your study period.
Ask questions if you aren’t sure about anything.

If there aren’t problems at the point of entry, the officer will let you enter Canada and will issue your
study permit. You should check the:

 study permit to make sure your personal information is correct and

 expiry date on your study permit. You must leave Canada by this date.

Disclosure of funds

If you arrive in Canada with more than CAN$10,000, you must tell this to the government officer. If you
don’t, you could be fined, and your funds could be seized. This includes:

 cash
 securities that belong to you (for example, stocks, bonds, debentures, treasury bills) or
 bankers’ drafts, cheques, traveller’s cheques or money orders.

Understanding the terms and conditions of your study permit

As an international student with a study permit you must:

 always be enrolled at a DLI

 make progress towards completing your program
 respect any conditions listed on your study permit
 stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements, and
 leave Canada when your permit expires

Based on your application, your study permit may include one or more of the following conditions:

 the level of studies you can attend

 if you are allowed to work in Canada
 if you need to report for medical procedures
 if you can’t travel within Canada, and
 the date you must stop studying.

Visit the page Changing schools or programs for more about what you need to do and when to tell us.

It is a crime not to comply with the conditions on your study permit.

If you break any of the conditions, you will lose your temporary resident status and any permit you
have.

Read your study permit carefully. It sets out all the conditions for studying in Canada. If you don’t meet
those conditions, or those of your eTA or visa, we will ask you to leave Canada.

Most people asked to leave Canada have the right to a fair hearing to review the decision.
Leaving and coming back to Canada

If you leave Canada and want to return, you must have a valid:

 passport or travel document

 study permit if you are returning to study in Canada and either a valid
o eTA, if you are from a country where you need an eTA
o visitor visa, if you are from a country where you need a visa (unless you travel solely to
the United States or St-Pierre and Miquelon and return to Canada while your study
permit is still valid).

Your study permit is not a visa.

Health insurance

The Government of Canada does not pay for the medical costs of foreign students. Health coverage for
foreign students is different depending on where you live. Contact the school you applied to for details
about health insurance.

Study permit

Guatemala: 6 week(s)
Does not include transit time between the VAC and IRCC office.

Extend your stay in Canada as a visitor

If you want to extend your stay in Canada, you must apply to do so. Check your temporary resident
status to make sure you apply before the expiry date. This will be on your study or work permit, the
stamp in your passport or, if you do not have a stamp in your passport, 6 months from the day you
entered Canada. You should apply 30 days before your status expires to:

 extend your visitor, student or work status,

 change your permit type (for example, from a study permit to a work permit) or
 change your permit condition(s) (for example, if you are studying and you want to change
schools, or if you are working and you want to change jobs).

Find out how to extend your stay as a visitor.

Implied status

If you apply to extend your permit, and your visitor visa expires while you are waiting for a decision, you
still have temporary resident (visitor) status. This is known as implied status.

Working or studying in Canada

Most visitors to Canada cannot work or study in Canada without a permit.

If you are visiting Canada and you want to work or study, you have a few options if you still have legal
status in Canada.

For a new work permit, you can apply:

 from your home country or another country where you are lawfully admitted. Follow the
instructions on how to apply for a work permit, or
 in person or by mail at the Visa Application centre in New York.

For a new study permit, you can apply:

 from your home country or another country where you are lawfully admitted. Follow the
instructions on how to apply for a study permit, or
 in person or by mail at the Visa Application Centre in Los Angeles.

Biometrics Collection

You may need to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) when applying for a visitor visa,
study permit or work permit. Find out if you need to give your biometrics.

If you need to give your biometrics with your Temporary Resident Visa, Work Permit, or Study Permit
application, you have to go in person to the Visa Application Centre (VAC). DO NOT submit your
application by mail. The VAC will collect your biometrics at the same time you submit your application.

In some cases, you are allowed to work or study without a permit. For more information, see:

 Study in Canada - Exceptions

 Work in Canada – Jobs that do not need a work permit

Getting a visitor visa from within Canada

If you are currently a temporary resident in Canada with a valid status (i.e. study or work permit), you
can apply for a new visitor visa to return to Canada before you leave.

Becoming a permanent resident of Canada

To stay in Canada as a permanent resident, you must leave the country and apply from outside
Canada, except in the special cases listed below. To become a permanent resident, you must meet
Canada's immigration requirements.

You can apply to become a permanent resident from inside Canada if you:

 are a refugee or a protected person,

 are a spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident,
 are a live-in caregiver,
 hold a valid temporary residence permit or
 are applying under the Canadian Experience Class.

Find more information about becoming a permanent resident.

Extend your Study Permit

International students should maintain their study permits valid throughout the entire study in Canada. If
the length of your study permit is going to expire before you complete your studies, you should extend
your study permit at least 30 days prior to the expiry. Study permit can be extended online or
by paper application. Please click here for more information.

STEPS FOR ONLINE STUDY PERMIT EXTENSION:

1. Register for a CIC account here.

2. Complete the questionnaire based on your current situation, and choose the "Study Permit"
option after.
3. Fill out the application form IMM5709 ; scan and upload all other required documents.

Pay the application fee CAD$150 as instructed here. Please note that the application fee can only be
paid online with credit card.

STEPS FOR PAPER STUDY PERMIT EXTENSION:

1. Download the application package here.

2. Complete the required application forms and collect all required documents.
3. Mail the application package to the Case Processing Center in Vegreville, Alberta as specified
in the Instruction Guide. Registered mail with tracking number is recommended.

TIPS FOR EXTENDING YOUR STUDY PERMIT ONLINE

1. Save a hard or soft copy of the application form and all documents for your reference in case
CIC is requesting additional documents.
2. Your incomplete online application can be saved on your MyCIC account for 60 days and you
must complete and submit within this period.
3. When you are applying to extend your study permit you can also apply for co-op work permit at
the same time.
4. IMM5709 has to be validated before being uploaded to your MyCIC.

YOU CAN VIEW A RECORDING OF A WEBINAR PRESENTED BY YORK INTERNATIONAL ON

STUDY PERMIT EXTENSION VIA THE LINKS BELOW:

Part #1 - http://connect.yulearn.yorku.ca/p11knsgese7/
Part #2 - http://connect.yulearn.yorku.ca/p5thppq399o/

Working in Canada as International Students

As international student, you may be eligible to work in Canada while studying and after you graduate.
As a study permit holder, you may qualify to work on-campus or off-campus without an additional work
permit if you meet specific criteria. You may also apply for a post-graduation work permit after you
graduate from an eligible institution. Please visit the Immigration Specialist at York International for
an individual advising if you would like to learn more about working as an international student while
studying at York University.
 Working in Canada Guide:

Off-Campus Employment Requirements

To work off-campus, an international student must:

 have a valid Study Permit

 be a full-time student
 be enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level or, in Quebec, a
vocational program at the secondary level
 be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree,
diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration
 have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) (See details below)

International students cannot work off campus if they are:

 Participating in a Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program funded by Canada’s

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT).
 Participating in a Government of Canada Awards Program funded by DFAIT.
 Receiving funding from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
 Participating in the Equal Opportunity Scholarship Program, Canada-Chile.
 Participating in the Canada-China Scholars Exchanges Program.
 Participating in the Organization of American States Fellowships Program.
 Registered in either an English as a Second Language or French as a Second Language
program
 A visiting or exchange student without a study permit.

On-Campus Employment Requirements

International students may work on campus at York without a work permit if you are a full time student
in a degree/diploma/certificate program with a valid study permit. Please note:

o A work permit is not required for on campus employment.

o There is no time limit for On-Campus work.
o A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required.

International Student Employment Fund (ISEF)

Information for International Students

The International Student Employment Fund (ISEF) provides funding to York University
departments and units that are able to offer employment opportunities to undergraduate
international students. Graduate students please consult with Faculty of Graduate
Studies for employment funding support (i.e. RA, TA etc.)

The application process for ISEF positions has two stages: 1) apply to York
International for eligibility to hold an ISEF position and 2) apply to departments that are
hiring for ISEF positions.
 STAGE 1: APPLY FOR ELIGIBILITY TO HOLD AN ISEF POSITION
Check that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

 Hold a valid study permit during the employment contract.

 Be a full-time international student pursuing an undergraduate degree from York. To be considered full-
time, you must be enrolled in both fall and winter academic sessions for the equivalent of 18 or more
credits, preferably 9 credits per session (12 or more credits for students registered with Counselling and
Disability Services, preferably 6 credits per session). Please note: Graduate, Exchange and Visiting
students are ineligible for ISEF positions.
 Demonstrate financial need (must complete the International Student Statement of Financial Need
section of the application form found at the link below).
 Not hold more than one ISEF position per term.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, complete and submit an ISEF Application for Students,
which includes the international student financial profile. You will be notified of your
eligibility for ISEF positions by an email from York International. Please note eligibility to
hold an ISEF position does NOT guarantee employment.

You are required to maintain your eligibility status during your employment contract. If
you receive Permanent Resident status, you are no longer eligible to hold an ISEF
position effective the date of your immigration status changes.

STAGE 2: APPLY TO DEPARTMENTS THAT ARE HIRING FOR ISEF

POSITIONS
Apply directly to hiring departments. Positions are posted on York’s Career Centre
website.

If you are a permanent resident or Canadian citizen, apply to the Work/Study

Program for domestic students, administered though Student Financial Services.

Information for Staff and Faculty Members

The International Student Employment Fund (ISEF) provides funding to York University
departments and units that are able to offer employment to international students. York
International administers ISEF by approving department and unit positions for funding,
transferring the funding to departments and units, and assessing students’ eligibility to
hold ISEF positions.

ISEF positions are excluded from supervisory and managerial work as well as work
normally performed by volunteer and bargaining unit positions, i.e. research assistants
and office/clerical/administrative assistants. Job descriptions containing these duties
will not be granted ISEF. Departments and units whose jobs are approved are eligible
to receive grants of 50% of the salary, up to a maximum of $1500.
The deadline date for entering Summer 2018 job request(s) is Friday, March 23, 2018.
Position decisions will be sent my email no later than Friday, April 6, 2018.

Departments and units seeking ISEF grants complete a job description for approval on
the Career Centre's online job posting system. The Position Type must be tagged
“ISEF (International Student Employment Fund)”.

In order to receive the grant, departments and units must ensure their position has
been approved for ISEF and their employee maintains eligibility to hold an ISEF
position during the employment contract. No exceptions will be made.

Social Insurance Number (SIN): required to work in Canada

WHAT IS A SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBER (SIN)?

A Social Insurance Number is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access
to government programs and benefits. It allows an employer to process payroll while informing the
Canadian Revenue Agency of the amount of money a person earns.

HOW TO OBTAIN A SIN?

If an international student has received a job offer regardless on or off campus, the student must apply
for a SIN before he/she can receive earnings and benefits. International students can obtain SIN onsite
by presenting original passport, study permit as well as a full time enrolment letter from York at
any Service Canada location. Please click here to find out more about SIN.

Note: If your employer has questions about the process for hiring an international student,
detailed information can be found on CIC’s website (English/Français).

Internships and Co-operative Education at York

For many students, York’s internship and co-operative education programs provide great opportunities
to supplement their in-class education with in-the-field experience. In many cases, these work
placements are paid positions and therefore can also help to offset the financial cost of a university
education.

If you are considering adding an Internship or Co-operative Education placement to your degree, York
has several options depending on your area of studies. Visit the Career Centre’s webpage.

In order to participate in a co-op or internship placement, you require a Co-op Work Permit. Eligibilities
for Co-op work permit include:

 You must have a valid study permit.

 Your employment must be part of your academic program, certified by a letter from a
responsible academic official of the institution.
 Your intended employment must be an essential part of your program of study in Canada.
 Your co-op or internship employment cannot form more than 50% (percent) of the total program
of study.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
Upon completion of your program at York, you may be eligible to apply for a Post-
Graduation Work Permit which is an open work permit that allows you to work in
Canada for up to three years. At the time of the application, your study permit must be
valid and you must apply within 90 days of the release of you final grades. A job offer is
NOT required for this permit. Please click here to see if you are qualified. For more
information, please come to speak to the Immigration Specialist at York International.

Personal Finances in Canada

Banking

Before departing for Canada, you should consider how you will transfer and convert your money into
Canadian dollars.

Bringing a small amount of Canadian money is the best way to pay for the initial expenses that you will
have upon arrival in Toronto. Two hundred dollars in cash should be adequate until you get your bank
account setup, if you have a residence room booked in advance.

Click here for information about how to pay your tuition and residence fees.

You will want to open a bank account at one of Canada's major banks soon after you arrive in Toronto.
Some students also use an international credit card such as MasterCard or Visa.

In addition to cash and credit cards, electronic banking cards, or ‘debit cards’, can be used to make
purchases in most Canadian stores. Debit cards that operate on the Interac, Cirrus or The Exchange
systems are the most widely accepted.

Credit Cards

Credit Cards are a popular way of making purchases in Canada. Visa and MasterCard are the two
most widely-used brands. If possible, it is advised to obtain a credit card in your home country, as it is
sometimes difficult for an international student to obtain one in Canada. Nonetheless, you should speak
with a representative at your new bank in Canada about what options for Canadian credit cards are
available to you.

A common way for recent arrivals or people with bad credit histories to obtain a Canadian credit card is
to give a sum of money to the issuing bank as a way to guarantee that you can repay any debt
incurred. This money is held in trust, until you establish a satisfactory credit history, at which time, it is
returned to you, with interest.

Money Transfers

International money transfers are often a convenient way for international student to receive funds from
family at home and to deposit their saving into their new Canadian bank account. Ask the staff at your
new bank how they recommend transferring money internationally.
There are several options for transferring money to Canada:

o Electronically transfer money into your Canadian bank account from your home country. Before
making the transfer, it is advised to check with your Canadian bank to determine how long the
transfer will take, as Canadian banks can impose significant holds on foreign deposits (sometimes
up to 20 business days).
o Obtain a bank draft for the amount you wish to transfer from your bank in your home
country. When you are prepared to deposit the bank draft into your new Canadian bank account,
ask the bank how long it will be before you can access the funds, as they may place a hold on the
deposit.
o If you have an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) card for your bank account in your home country,
you may be able to withdraw money from your account at an ATM in Canada and deposit it into
your new account. Check with your home bank about this option. Note: there may be significant
international banking fees and service charges incurred, and that exchange rates can
frequently fluctuate.

Regardless of which option you choose, keep copies of all transaction records.

Note: if you are bringing $10,000 or more into Canada, you must declare these funds.

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

In Ontario, most goods and services that you purchase will be subject to the Harmonized Sales Tax
(HST). This is a tax of 13% and is implemented jointly by the federal and provincial government.

Food purchased through an on-campus meal plan is exempt from this tax, as are most medical or
dental procedures.

Income Tax

In Canada, completing an income tax form and sending it to the government is referred to as ‘filing a
tax return’. You must file a tax return if you:

 Earned income from employment.

 Received a scholarship, bursary or fellowship while in Canada.

By filing your tax return, you are often eligible for a refund if you have had any of the following income
or expenses during the tax year:

 Income from an assistantships, such as a Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA).
 Rent expenses for off-campus housing.
 Salary or hourly pay.
 Scholarships.
 Tuition (2014 T2202A and T4A tax forms from York are available to download at: sfs.yorku.ca ).
 Public transit pass (TTC, GO Transit or VIVA, for example).

A video series explaining Canadian Income Taxes for international students has been produced by the
Canada Revenue Agency (français). For undergraduate students, YFS offers you a free software
package (see free tax filing) to calculate and submit your taxes. If you have questions you may also call
the International Tax office at: 1-800-959-8281.

Income Tax Deadline

In Canada, the tax year goes from January 1 to December 31. Income tax forms must be completed
and submitted by April 30 of the following year. For example, you must mail your completed tax forms
for the 2014 tax year (January 1 to December 31, 2014) by April 30, 2015. Information about filing a tax
return as an international student in Canada can be found on the Canada Revenue Agency's website.

Social Insurance Number or Individual Tax Number

To submit your income tax form you must have one of the following:

 A Social Insurance Number (SIN) (English/Français). To have a SIN you must have active
employment on campus or a work permit.
 If you do not have a SIN, because you did not earn income in Canada, you must have
an Individual Tax Number (ITN) (English/ Français) file your tax return. You must also submit a
certified copy of your identifying documents.Valid documents must include your name, date of
birth, and photograph. You may have to provide a combination of documents for this purpose.
Examples of acceptable documents include: a passport, driver's license, birth certificate, work
permit, study permit, visitor record, and diplomatic identity card.Documents can be certified by
visiting any Service Ontario or Service Canada office, or by visiting the York Federation of
Students' lawyer.

Harmonized Sales Tax Credit

Low-income wage earners, including international students, are entitled to apply for a Harmonized
Sales Tax (HST) credit (Step 2 on your income tax form). You must have been in Canada for at least
six months during the taxation year to be eligible for an HST credit.

If you are eligible for an HST credit, quarterly or semi-annual credits are either mailed to you or directly
deposited to your bank account (if you choose this option on the form).

Where to send your income tax forms

As an international student, you should send your tax return each year to:

International Tax Services Office

Post Office Box 9769, Station T
Ottawa ON K1G 3Y4
CANADA

International Student Award Opportunities

International students can access a variety of eligible funding and award opportunities, ranging from
government competitions to donor-funded awards specific to York.

External Scholarships
  Ontario Graduate Scholarships
 Ontario Trillium Scholarships
 Trudeau Scholarships
 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Internal Awards

 Anne Simone Graduate Student International Conference Award

 Armand and Denise LaBarge Graduate Scholarship in Multiculturalism
 Elia Scholars Program
 Graduate Fellowship for Academic Distinction (GFAD)
 Howard Daugherty International Graduate Award in Neotropical Conservation
 Joyce and Fred Zemans Scholarship
 Kent Haworth Archival Research Fellowship
 Manulife Financial International Graduate Scholarship at Norman Bethune College
 Provost Dissertation Scholarship
 Sherrill Cheda Graduate Scholarship
 Susan Mann Dissertation Scholarship
 The Sammy Graduate Scholarship in Autism Research

International Graduate Student Fees and Living Expenses -

Fall/Winter 2016-17
These costs are estimated and expenses and are subject to change.

Full Year (3 Terms) (Masters)

Program Fees (Including Tuition and Supplementary $19,500

Fees)

Textbooks and Supplies $1500-$3000

Residence $12,000/year

On-residence meal plan (optional) $2,625 to 4,200

Personal expenses living on campus (entertainment and $2,200

other)

Living off campus (apartment rental, utilities, meals) $16,000/year(estimate)

Personal expenses - living off campus (entertainment, $3,000

transportation)

Health and dental care (UHIP + Supplementary coverage) $853

TOTAL min. $38,700 (estimate)