International students are no longer required to pay all or part of their tuition fees to be eligible for a study permit in Canada. According to the Economic Times, a Canadian Federal Court has ruled that as long as international students can demonstrate their ability to cover tuition and other expenses when necessary, they can apply for a study permit without facing penalties for any unpaid tuition at the time of application. This ruling stemmed from the case of an Iranian student (Tehrani v Canada), whose study permit application was denied by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) due to non-payment of tuition.
This decision removes a significant barrier for foreign students aspiring to study in Canada, particularly those who may not have the means to pay their tuition fees upfront when submitting their study permit applications. In 2022, Canada welcomed over 550,000 new international students, with Indian students being the largest group, as more than 226,450 visas were approved for them, according to IRCC data. Canada has long been a favored destination for students seeking higher education abroad. For many Nigerians, studying in Canada is one of the most accessible and expedient ways to migrate, with the country being a top choice for international students.
Each year, hundreds of Nigerians relocate to Canada for educational opportunities. The Canadian government recently announced plans to welcome 1.5 million migrants between 2023 and 2025. They have also outlined six essential documents for Nigerians looking to study in Canada, emphasizing the importance of each document in the application process. It is crucial to understand that a study permit is not a visa and does not grant entry into Canada. Students will still need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) in addition to their study permit.
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