<p>I'm filling out the forms for my CAQ and study permit now (they let me in late) and I'm a little confused with the study permit. I know that it says that if you're a US citizen that you can apply at the port of entry, but in the International Students booklet it says that it can take up to 6 months to get approval. Should I send it to an office that is close to me to get approval prior to my flight to Montreal or can they actually give you approval at the border on the spot? I'm confused :-(!!!</p>
<p>My son did all prior to crossing the border (he is US). You will need both a Canadian Visa and a Quebec Visa. Get the approval before you enter Canada. Even with both approvals, my son was delayed at the border.
ALSO-very important-be sure to carry your letter of acceptance from McGill with you AND your financial statements, i.e. proof that you will have financial backing while you are a student at McGill. A print out of your bank statement should suffice.
You will receive your official Visa (good for 3 years) at the border and it will be stapled to your passport.</p>
<p>How do you get approval before entering Canada? Do I have to mail my study permit to one of the Canadian Visa offices?</p>
<p>Where are you from?</p>
<p>I'm from Chicago</p>
<p>You get the study permit at the Canadian border, when you
enter Canada if you are an american citizen. The border guards are well aware of the procedure. You will need a copy of the CAQ and all the backup documemntation you needed to get the CAQ- ie. proof of financial stability, passport photos, ect.</p>
<p>One tip- if you live close to the border, go early rather than wait for the weekend all new students are entering. We live in Vermont and made a visit for that purpose to Highgate Springs (I-89) border crossing in early August. The permit took ten minutes to issue in a quiet and friendly atmosphere. The guard told us that it can take several hours in late August. The permit is only good for three years but can be renewed by mail. And, oh yes, dont forget the fee.</p>
<p>So basically then you pay the fee at the border? I was worrying because there was no form to submit regarding the payment of the application fee. Also, when I was filling out my CAQ, the payment form said "Form of Payment submitted in Quebec." I am submitting from the US. Is this a trivial fear or are they going to make a big deal about it, since Customs/Immigration people are known to make huge complications from small matters.</p>
<p>Also do you think by simply going to the Immigration office in the States will expedite the processing of my Canadian Study Permit?</p>