With a high-quality education system and strong job prospects, Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for Brazilian students
By Pedro Augusto
Canada has established itself as one of the top destinations for those looking to study abroad. Internationally recognized universities, a high standard of living, safety, diversity, and welcoming policies for international students make the country highly attractive for those seeking quality education.
Before packing your bags, however, it’s important to understand every step of the process. For programs lasting more than six months, students must apply for a Study Permit, an official authorization that must be approved by the Canadian government before arrival. The application requires documents such as an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI), a provincial attestation letter (known as PAL/TAL, or CAQ for stays in Quebec), proof of identity, financial support, and in some cases, biometrics, medical exams, and language proficiency tests.
Applications can be submitted online or in person at the nearest visa application center. Ideally, the process should begin as soon as the acceptance letter is received, as approval can take up to three months. The application status can be tracked via the Canadian government’s platform, which also answers frequently asked questions.
Once the visa is approved, international students must remain enrolled in a recognized institution and demonstrate academic progress. Anyone wishing to change programs or institutions must update their permit. Failure to comply with visa conditions can result in loss of the right to remain in the country.
In addition to studying, many Brazilians choose to work during the school term. If authorized on the Study Permit, students may work up to 24 hours per week off-campus and full-time during breaks. Programs that require mandatory internships also provide specific permits for student work. For those hoping to stay in the country, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to work for up to three years after completing their studies, opening doors to the local job market and future immigration opportunities.
Choosing the right city to live in is essential. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer great infrastructure but come with a higher cost of living. Montreal provides top-tier education along with a bilingual experience in French and English. Smaller cities such as Halifax or Regina have become increasingly popular among Brazilian students for their affordability and welcoming atmosphere.
“There are many interesting universities outside the Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal axis that are just as good as the top institutions, depending on the research field and chosen program. These schools often provide a more peaceful academic life, in cities that are easier to live in and get around, and that usually have a more affordable cost of living,” says Diego Bitencourt, president of Alumni Canada-Brazil and co-coordinator of the Education Committee at the Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce.
Monthly living expenses typically range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 2,000, including housing, food, and transportation. Many students choose to share apartments or stay in student residences. Scholarships are also available through the My EduCanada portal, though many of these require Canadian institutions to apply on behalf of the student.
Planning should begin at least six months in advance. In addition to the visa, you’ll need health insurance, housing arrangements, translated documents, and an understanding of the specific requirements of your chosen province. The Canadian government keeps all relevant information up to date on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, the main reference point for those beginning their journey.
Studying in Canada is not just about earning a degree—it’s a gateway to the international job market, a chance for cultural immersion, and for many, the first step toward a new life.
“If someone already has an established career in Brazil, it’s a great idea to build on that experience to pursue further specialization and earn a Canadian degree. That can make it much easier to enter the job market and is often more advantageous than starting from scratch in a new field just because it’s currently in demand here,” Diego adds.
More information about studying in Canada can be found on the Canadian government’s official website.
If you’re preparing to study in Canada or want to learn more about educational opportunities there, don’t miss Canada Day 2025, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Brazil-Canada (CCBC). The event takes place on July 2, from 4 PM to 8 PM, at CCBC’s headquarters in São Paulo. It will bring together representatives from Canadian universities and colleges to help you find the ideal program for your career. Participation is free, and there is also an option to attend online. Register here and take the first step toward your academic journey in Canada.
