Apply for authorizations to enter Canada

International students must meet certain government requirements in order to enter and study in Canada.

Take note

• Students admitted to an exchange program will receive an invitation to a mandatory information session shortly after their admission. During the session, you will be able to ask any questions you may have.
• Begin the process as soon as possible once your letter of admission to HEC Montréal is available. You must have all the required documents before leaving for Canada.
• Do not attempt to enter Canada without the required authorizations. Otherwise, you may have trouble or be turned away at the border. In such a case, HEC Montréal may not be able to validate your admission.
• Beware of fraud and scams. Trust only the links provided on this page.

For any questions or if a problem arises, please contact us right away, at incoming [at] hec.ca (incoming[at]hec[dot]ca).

For one term on exchange – all nationalities

You only need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or a temporary resident visa (TRV) to enter and study in Canada.
 

Step 1: Make sure your passport will be valid for at least 6 months after the end of your exchange.

Step 2: Determine whether you need an eTA or a TRV, according to your citizenship.

Step 3: Based on the results from Step 2, apply for an eTA or a TRV.

• You can apply online for an eTA and receive it in under 72 hours for Can$7. Apply for an eTA
• You can apply online for a TRV for Can$100, plus Can$85 for the biometrics. Processing times can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Apply for a TRV

  Processing times for a TRV can sometimes be very long.

For two terms on exchange (one year)

You must obtain a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and a study permit.

Step 1: Make sure your passport will be valid for at least 6 months after the end of your exchange.

Step 2:

• Apply for a CAQ. The fee is Can$135.
• Prepare your study permit application. You will submit it when you have received your CAQ.

  Non-European citizens: see the specific instructions that apply to you by checking with your visa application centre (VAC) or emailing us at incoming [at] hec.ca (incoming[at]hec[dot]ca).

Step 3: Once you have received your CAQ, submit your application for a study permit. The fee is Can$150, plus Can$85 for the biometrics. This application automatically includes an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or a temporary resident visa (TRV).