Pre-arrival checklist
1. Study permits and work eligibility
You should apply for a study permit as soon as you receive your admission email, letter of acceptance, and provincial attestation letter (if required) from UVic.
- join an upcoming information session on how to apply, or watch our most recent session recording
- if your program includes distance learning (online) components, make sure you understand the impacts on study permit and post-graduation work permit eligibility
- find out if you're eligible to work while you study
- contact an ICS immigration practitioner if you have questions
Already have a study permit?
If you have a valid study permit for another institution in Canada, you must get a new study permit before starting your studies at UVic by . In most cases, you must wait to receive your new study permit before you can start your UVic program.
For more information, refer to our study permits page.2. Travel planning
If this is your first time travelling to Victoria, our planning your travel page has information about entry requirements, documentation and travel options.
You can also find information about what to bring to Canada.
Visit our events page for details on upcoming pre-arrival information sessions.
3. Finances, housing and health
Once your permits and travel planning are taken care of, you'll want to think about what you'll need to start your new life in Victoria.
4. Making connections
There are many ways to create meaningful connections and communities on and off campus.
- register for orientation events, including our International Student Welcome
- connect with your campus
- join the UVic Global Community
- attend ICS events
- connect with the ICS on social media:
- Facebook:
- Instagram:
5. Video resources
Review our video resources for new international students for important information as you start your UVic journey.