American in Canada

[baa15]

Do any American grad students in Canada have advice for applying for student visas? I think one can apply at point of entry, but don't know how soon this can be done and how long the student visa lasts. Are there any differences for studying in Quebec versus Ontario? Thanks!

[tkm256]

I'm also American, looking at a school in Canada (who still hasn't sent the decision, though the website says they will "by March 31st at the latest"). I've been told to apply for the visa as soon as I've accepted an offer of matriculation, because it may take up to 6 months to go through (you do have to be admitted first to fill out the form). I don't know how long it applies.

[jthh]

I've also heard that you need to apply as soon as you decide to go. It's possible that it won't take long but it can take a matter of months. I'm pretty sure I'm going to go to UBC, so I need to get on this ASAP too...

for other Americans considering/going to Canada, have you given any thought to, or gotten any advice about, how a Canadian degree would affect your job prospects in the US?

[tkm256]

have you given any thought to, or gotten any advice about, how a Canadian degree would affect your job prospects in the US?

In my case, it won't matter. I'm going for library science, and the schools I applied to are accredited by the ALA. I didn't know the American Library Association would extend to Canada, but there are apparently 7 universities that meet the requirements :?

For other disciplines, I don't think it will matter much as long as the primary language of instruction is English. Some lesser companies might give you a side-long look, but I don't think most reputable employers are so narrow-minded as to think an American university would be better just because it's American.

[jthh]

I agree that it shouldn't be an issue. I had a discussion with a colleague (a retired professor) who claimed that getting a PhD in Canada would doom me to working only in Canada for the rest of my life, but most other informal advice I've received has been to the contrary. I think I'll be one of the only Americans, if not the only one, in my program. It should be interesting!

The UBC brochure for grad students actually says that Americans can apply for the study permit at the border on their way in, which makes me believe that our countries have some kind of special arrangement. I'll be applying for the permit earlier, regardless, but that seems to suggest it may not take too long.

[kent shakespeare]

for Quebec, there is an extra form you need (I forget which, but your U should tell you. the immigration website also lists it).

US residents can get study permits at the border. I'm not aware of us needing a visa beyond a study permit (except for Quebec).

[kent shakespeare]

following up:

I got my study permit at the border, no problems. They issue it based upon your program length; base on the documentation you provide from your U. I brought lots of other documentation they didn't even look at: banks info, loan paperwork, etc.

[jessiko]

Following up as well, as an American, you can apply at the border. Just make sure to bring your acceptance letter, bank statements (showing that you can support yourself or funding package information). They will print one up for you right at the border, takes probably 10-20 minutes.

[j23]

As an American it's quite easy to get a student visa for Ontario at least. I know Quebec there's something extra but for the other provinces it can be done at the port of entry. Like others said, make sure you have your letter of acceptance, bank statements to show you can support yourself, and 2 passport photos (stamped with a recent date).

[Squawker]

If you want to apply in advance, do you have to mail in your passport?

Any advice about bringing a pet into Canada from the US? I hear you can do that at the port of entry as long as you arrange to arrive when there's a vet on duty but I thought I'd ask others as well just for good measure.

[breakfast]

If you're bringing a pet, make sure they are up-to-date on all of their shots. You get can proof of that from your vet I am sure.

[CatRunner]

In my case, it won't matter. I'm going for library science, and the schools I applied to are accredited by the ALA. I didn't know the American Library Association would extend to Canada, but there are apparently 7 universities that meet the requirements :?

Canada is part of NORTH AMERICA, you know. The USA is not the only country on the continent.

And yes, most Masters programs in Library Science in Canada are accredited by the ALA.