An onshore study permit is for people who are already in Canada and want to start studying, change institutions, or move from another status into study. Simmi Immigration helps you switch cleanly, without a gap in status.
Overview
Only specific groups may apply for an initial study permit from inside Canada. Examples include people with a valid work or study permit and their family members, certain visiting or exchange students, some minor students, eligible refugee claimants and people who completed a prerequisite short course required for DLI admission.
Most visitors are not eligible to make an in-Canada study permit application. If no listed exception applies, the person generally needs to leave Canada and follow the outside-Canada application process.
A post-secondary student changing to a different designated learning institution must apply to extend the study permit and receive a new permit for the new DLI before starting there, unless a narrow IRCC exception allows study while the application is pending.
The application normally includes the new letter of acceptance, an explanation for the change and a new PAL or TAL when required. Changing programs at the same DLI is treated differently and may not require a new permit if the current permit remains valid and its conditions still allow the studies.
Apply before your current status expires. A timely extension application may let you remain in Canada under maintained status, but the activities you may continue depend on the conditions of the expiring permit and the type of application filed.
Submitting an application does not automatically authorize a visitor to begin a program. Confirm both in-Canada eligibility and study authorization before classes start.
Key information
Eligibility, supporting evidence and practical considerations for this application.
Checklist
Requirements depend on the basis that allows you to apply from inside Canada.
Step by step
Identify the IRCC category that permits an in-Canada application.
Review the current document, conditions and expiry date.
Obtain the LOA and PAL, TAL or CAQ if required.
Organize funds, study purpose and transition documents.
Submit the correct in-Canada application on time.
Begin or continue studies only when legally authorized.
Answers
No. Most visitors cannot. Only people who fit one of IRCC’s listed in-Canada categories may apply without leaving Canada.
A person with a valid work permit is among the groups that may apply from inside Canada, but the full study permit requirements still apply.
Generally no. You must apply to extend your study permit for the new DLI and normally receive the new permit before starting there. Narrow exceptions exist when the prior DLI closed, discontinued the program, was suspended or lost designation.
A new PAL or TAL is generally required for a post-secondary DLI change unless you meet an exemption. Quebec applicants should also confirm CAQ requirements.
You may be able to continue at the same DLI without a new permit if the existing permit remains valid and its conditions do not restrict the change. An extension may still be needed for the new end date or program conditions.
Not automatically. Your existing status and any maintained-status rights determine what you may do while waiting. A visitor should not assume that submission authorizes study.
Next step
We map your current status, the transition you want, and the timing — so you apply correctly and avoid a gap in status.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Program rules change and individual circumstances matter. Confirm current IRCC requirements before applying.
Talk to a regulated consultant
We confirm eligibility, flag the risks, and build the document plan before anything is filed.
Book consultationFree assessment