New Students
When you arrive in Canada, you must present your Letter of Introduction (LOI) and Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the University of Alberta to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. If your program is longer than six months, the officer will issue your study permit at the port of entry.
Exchange Students: If your program is less than six months, you may enter Canada with a valid visa or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). A study permit is not required.
If you are a degree-seeking student, ensure your study permit includes work authorization remarks such as: “may work” or “may accept employment.”
If these remarks are missing, let the officer know immediately. Without them, you cannot apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN), required for work during studies and to receive payments like stipends.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
We recommend arriving in Canada 2–3 weeks before classes begin. This gives you time to settle, find housing, and attend orientation activities. Avoid peak travel periods in late August, early September, and early January. You cannot work on or off campus until your classes begin.
For more information, refer to IRCC’s Prepare for your arrival
ARRIVAL AT Canadian AIRPORT
Upon landing, you may be directed to a designated area for international students. Follow signs and prepare to present the following documents to the Border Services Officer
- Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction (if applicable)
- Valid passport or travel document
- Valid Visa or eTA
- Letter of Acceptance (or Verification of Enrolment from Bear Tracks if LOA is expired)
- Financial documents (e.g., bank statements or proof of funding)
- Medical exam confirmation, if required by IRCC
If you’re entering Canada after your program has already begun, you must also bring a Verification of Enrolment from Bear Tracks.
Carry all essential documents including passports, letters, and finanical records, in your carry-on luggage. Do not put them in checked luggage.
It may take up to 3 hours to clear Canada Customs and receive your study permit.
After Receiving Your Study Permit
- Carefully review your study permit
- Check for correct personal details and work authorization remarks
- Report any errors to the CBSA officer immediately.
Can I laminate my study permit?
No. Do not laminate or alter your study permit. IRCC considers laminated or modified documents invalid. Your study permit is not a travel or identity document and must be presented in its original, unaltered form.
Instead, we recommend taking a clear photo of your study permit and ID pages in your passport for backup
After You Arrive
You will be welcomed with various orientations and arrival programs to help you transition to the University. International Student and Visitor Services is here to support you through your transition.
If you have questions about immigration, refer to Immigration Resources
If you don’t find an answer to your question, you can connect with an International Student Specialist