Canada visa processing times and study rules for permit holders

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated processing estimates for temporary residence visas, specifically highlighting timelines for Indian applicants. Currently, Indian applicants face a 10-week wait for work permits and a five-week wait for study permits. Visitor visa processing has seen a slight improvement, now estimated at 29 days.

Regarding study regulations, work permit holders in Canada may be eligible to enroll in short-term courses lasting six months or less without a separate study permit. However, the six-month limit is calculated based on the total program duration, including scheduled academic breaks and reading weeks, rather than just active class weeks. Applicants must ensure their specific circumstances and course structures meet these requirements to avoid needing a formal study permit.