When you arrive in Canada on a study permit, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will interview you to confirm you meet the entry requirements and that you intend to stay only for the duration of your studies.
Primary and secondary inspection
- Primary inspection: The officer checks your documents, asks a few basic questions, and decides whether to admit you, refer you elsewhere, or send you to secondary inspection.
- Secondary inspection: A more detailed review that may involve re‑checking documents, asking the same questions again, and verifying funds. Referral to secondary inspection does not automatically indicate a problem; it is a routine part of the process for citizens, permanent residents, and visitors alike.
Mandatory declarations
- Any cash or monetary instruments $10,000 CAD or more must be declared at the border (including foreign currency, bank drafts, bearer’s bonds, traveller’s cheques). Failure to declare is an offence and can result in seizure of the funds.
Documents to keep in your carry‑on
Bring the following items in your hand luggage (not in checked baggage):
- Port of entry (POE) letter of introduction (paper or electronic)
- Valid letter of acceptance from your school
- Passport (with visa or eTA, if required)
- Any additional documents requested by the visa office
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), if applicable
- Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC confirmation, scholarship letters)
- Tuition payment receipts
- Medical exam confirmation, if required
- Housing information and Canadian contact details
Typical question categories
-
Identity and travel purpose
- Purpose of your visit (must align with your study permit)
- Planned length of stay
- Intended residence in Canada
-
Your studies
- Program name and school
- Start date and duration
- Reason for choosing the school and program
- Previous education or work experience
-
Finances
- Who is funding your studies?
- Amount of money you are bringing into Canada
- Whether you have a job lined up (students may work up to 24 hours per week off‑campus during academic terms, provided they meet eligibility requirements)
-
Ties and post‑graduation intent
- Family connections in Canada
- Plans after graduation (e.g., applying for a post‑graduation work permit)
- Intent to leave Canada when the study permit expires
Honest answers that acknowledge the temporary nature of the study permit and any intention to apply for a post‑graduation work permit are consistent with “temporary resident intent.”
Importance of honesty
Misrepresentation under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act can render you inadmissible for five years. The offence can arise from deliberate falsehoods, omissions, or even mistakes. If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to repeat it or request an interpreter.
Final check of your study permit
If admission is granted, the officer will issue a physical study permit. Verify immediately that:
- Your name and date of birth match your passport
- The expiry date is correct
- The work‑authorization condition is clearly printed (if you are eligible)
Report any discrepancies to the officer on the spot to avoid complications later.
Source article: www.cicnews.com
