From Visitor to International Student: How Family Support Opens Doors in Canada
- cynthiai5
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
At InfoPlace Canada, we thrive on transforming ambitions into achievements. One of our favourite success stories involves Ify, a determined young Nigerian who came to Canada on a visitor visa and dreamed of studying here. Through our tailored counselling and Free School Admission service, she navigated the complex visitor‑visa‑to‑study‑permit process and secured a Canadian study permit proof that with the right guidance and a solid plan, international students can turn their Canadian education dreams into reality.
Meet Ify
Age: 23
Country of Citizenship: Nigeria
Occupation: Sales Manager (Family Business)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Program of Study: Early Childhood Education
School of Choice: Fanshawe College
Sponsor: Her Sister
When Ify landed in Canada on a visitor visa, she fell in love with the country and dreamed of securing additional education in Canada. Her older sister booked an Ask InfoPlace Consultation for her this was the first step on a journey that would lead from just visiting Canada to becoming an international student.
From Application to Acceptance
To make Ify’s dream a reality, she enrolled in our Free School Admission service and applied to several Designated Learning Institutions. Together we shortlisted two offers: Fanshawe College and Conestoga College. After weighing the pros and cons (and flipping a few coins), she chose the Early Childhood Education program at Fanshawe College. The program aligns perfectly with her long‑term career goal of shaping young minds, and the college’s vibrant student community sealed the deal.
The Challenge: Switching Status & Application Details
A visitor visa doesn’t automatically grant the right to study in Canada. Most people can’t apply for a study permit while they’re already in Canada, and visitors are generally not eligible to convert their status without leaving the country. You can read more here. This meant Ify had to return to Nigeria to submit her application from abroad.
Complicating matters were three factors:
Program switch – moving from a Political Science background to Early Childhood Education.
Family in Canada – three siblings already studying here could raise questions about her intent to return home.
Proof of funds – immigration officers require proof that you can pay tuition, living expenses and travel costs, so the finances had to be spotless.
Building a Strong Study Permit Application
During our consultation, we laid out a roadmap to help Ify navigate the process with confidence (because who says immigration has to be scary?).
Crafting a persuasive letter of explanation – IRCC recommends applicants write a letter explaining why they want to study in Canada. Our team showcased how Early Childhood Education complements her background and career plans.
Transparent financial sponsorship – IRCC expects applicants to prove they can cover tuition, living expenses and travel. Ify’s sister provided clear sponsorship documents, bank statements and a letter of support.
Highlighting Strong ties to Nigeria: Despite having three siblings in Canada, we are worked with Ify to highlight strong ties still had in Nigeria to facilitate a return a the end of her authorised stay in Canada.
Leveraging our experience – We had already secured study permits for two of Ify’s siblings. The running joke in our office was that we were going for a hat trick and it worked! (Third time’s a charm, right?)
Timeline & Outcome
Application Submitted: July 3, 2025
Passport Request Received: August 29, 2025
In less than two months, Ify’s study permit was approved despite the complexities of her case. She’s now preparing to start her studies at Fanshawe College this fall, armed with determination and the support of her family.
Ify’s story shows that transitioning from a visitor visa to a study permit is possible when you understand the rules, prepare meticulous documentation and work with experienced consultants. Her journey highlights the importance of:
Choosing a program that aligns with your career goals.
Understanding that visitors usually must apply for a study permit from outside Canada (except exempt).
Demonstrating strong ties to your home country and providing clear proof of financial support.
If you’re in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email ask@infoplacecanada.ca or call +1 306-585-6565. At InfoPlace, we blend expertise with encouragement to make your Canadian education dreams a reality.