Obtaining the necessary authorizations to study in Québec

Once you have received your letter of admission from a Québec educational institution, you need to obtain:

• a CAQ, issued by the Gouvernement du Québec (Government of Québec)
• a study permit, issued by the Government of Canada.

This applies whether you are pursuing primary, secondary, college-level or university studies, adult education or any other type of training program.

Excluding postal delays, it generally takes four weeks to process an application for a CAQ, provided your file is complete (including all duly completed forms and required supporting documents).

The time required for processing an application for a study permit may vary from one Canadian visa office to another. It may also depend on whether or not you need to undergo a medical examination.

3 important steps

As soon as you receive your letter of admission from the educational institution, you should take the following three steps:

1. Making sure you are familiar with the requirements for staying in Québec as a foreign student.

2. Applying for an Acceptance Certificate for studies.

3. Applying for a study permit.