LAWCRESTStudy permits lawyer in Mississauga
Studying in Canada is a major investment of time, money and hope. Lawcrest helps international students and their families across Mississauga and the GTA prepare strong study permit applications, extend their stay and handle refusals, with clear advice at every step.
Study permit rules, caps and funding requirements change often. Applying early and completely protects your start date and your status.
416-830-3369Your path to studying in Canada
Most international students need a study permit to study in Canada for longer than six months. The permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is linked to your school and your plan to study.
Applications are refused for reasons that are often avoidable, such as an unclear study plan, weak financial evidence or missing documents. Careful preparation makes a real difference.
We help students, parents and families understand the process, build a clear and honest application, and stay in good status throughout their studies.
- Prospective studentsFirst-time study permit applications from abroad or from inside Canada.
- Current studentsExtensions, changes of school or program, and status questions.
- Parents and familiesGuidance for minors, spouses and dependants.
Study permit services we offer
If your situation is not listed, call us. We will tell you plainly whether we can help and what is realistic.
New study permits
For college, university and other programs at a designated learning institution.
Study permit extensions
Extending your permit so you can finish your program in good status.
Changing school or program
Updating IRCC when you move to a new school or a new program.
Minor students
Applications for students under the age of majority, including custodianship arrangements.
Co-op and internship permits
Work permits for programs that include a work placement.
Spouse and dependants
Options for spouses, partners and children who want to come with you, where eligible.
After graduation
Planning for a post-graduation work permit and your longer-term goals.
Refusals and reapplications
Understanding a refusal and preparing a stronger new application or other response.
When should you speak to a lawyer?
The sooner you get advice, the more options you usually have. Contact us if any of these sound familiar.
- You have an offer from a Canadian schoolWe check the documents you need, including any provincial attestation letter.
- You are unsure about funds or your study planThese are two of the most common reasons for refusal.
- Your study permit is about to expireApplying in time protects your status.
- You want to change school or programRules apply and IRCC may need to be updated.
- You were refusedThe next step depends on why, and deadlines can be short.
- You want to bring familyEligibility for spouses and children depends on your program.
Study permit pathways
There is more than one route. We explain each, including requirements and likely timing, so you can choose with confidence.
Applying from outside CanadaThe most common route
You apply with your acceptance letter, proof of funds and other documents, then receive a letter of introduction to present when you arrive.
Applying from inside CanadaOnly in some situations
Some people, such as certain visitors or current permit holders, may apply from inside Canada. Eligibility is limited, so check before relying on this route.
Extensions and maintained statusApply before expiry
If you apply to extend before your permit expires, you may be able to continue studying while the application is processed.
Working while you studyLimits apply
Many students may work on or off campus during their studies, but there are limits on hours and conditions. We explain the current rules for your situation.
After graduationPlan early
Graduates of eligible programs may qualify for a post-graduation work permit, which can lead to permanent residence. We help you plan from the start.
How we work with you
A clear process, with no surprises about where your application stands.
Consultation
You tell us about your goals, school and finances. We listen, check eligibility and explain your options in plain language.
Plan the application
We confirm the school and program, any attestation letter required, and the strongest way to present your plan.
Gather the documents
We prepare your study plan, financial evidence and forms, and flag gaps early.
Apply and follow up
We submit your application, track it and respond promptly to any requests from IRCC.
Biometrics and medicals
We guide you through biometrics, any medical exam and other steps, so you know what to expect.
Decision and arrival
We review the decision with you and advise on your permit conditions and next steps.
What visa officers look for
Officers must be satisfied that you are a genuine student who will follow the rules. A strong application answers these questions clearly.
- A genuine reason to studyWhy this program, and why in Canada.
- A clear and realistic study planIt matches your background and your future goals.
- Enough moneyFor tuition, living costs and travel, shown with reliable documents.
- Ties and intent to leave at the endEvidence that you will respect the time limit of your stay.
- A complete and consistent fileDocuments and statements that agree with each other.
Documents we will ask you for
Do not worry if you do not have everything. Bring what you can, and we will tell you what else is useful.
- Passport and any previous study or visa history
- Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution
- Provincial or territorial attestation letter, if required
- Proof of funds, such as bank statements or sponsor documents
- Education records, test scores and your study plan
- Police certificates and medical results, where required
If your study permit was refused
A refusal is not always the end. Common reasons include insufficient funds, an unclear study plan, doubts that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies, and missing documents. The next step may be a stronger new application, a request for the officer notes, or in some cases a judicial review in the Federal Court, which has strict deadlines.
Contact us immediately and bring the refusal letter. No lawyer can guarantee an outcome, but early advice gives you the strongest chance.
Why clients choose Lawcrest
You are trusting us with your education and your future. This is how we earn that trust.
Plain-language advice
No jargon. You understand each step and each choice before we act.
Cost clarity
We discuss our fees at the start. Government fees are separate, and we explain them.
Careful preparation
Complete, consistent applications reduce delays and the risk of refusal.
Confidential
What you tell us is protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Honest advice
We tell you what is realistic, and we never promise an outcome we cannot control.
Students and families
We work with students, parents and sponsors, in plain language.
Regulated lawyers
Lawcrest is a professional corporation regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Local and accessible
Meet us at our Matheson Blvd office in Mississauga, or arrange a call.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Call 416-830-3369 and we will talk it through.
Do I need a study permit?
Generally yes, if your program is longer than six months. Some short courses do not need one. We confirm your situation before you plan your move.
What is a provincial attestation letter?
For many applicants, a letter from the province or territory is now required with the application. There are exceptions and the rules change, so we check the current requirements for you.
How much money do I need to show?
You must show enough funds for tuition, living costs and travel. The required amounts are updated regularly, so we confirm the current figures for your case.
Can I work while I study?
Many students may work on or off campus during their program, within limits on hours and conditions. The rules change, so we explain what applies to you.
Can I switch schools or programs?
Often yes, but you may need to update IRCC and in some cases apply for a new permit. Check with us before you make the change.
Can my family come with me?
In some cases a spouse or partner may qualify for a work permit, and children may be able to study. Eligibility depends on your program and your permit.
What if my application is refused?
Options include reapplying with stronger evidence, requesting the officer notes or seeking judicial review, with strict deadlines. Contact us right away and bring the refusal letter.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your communications with us are protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Testimonials
They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable. We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next.
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