If you are joining SFU from a Canadian high school, you are not required to make any changes to your study permit before you begin your classes, provided that the permit is still valid. However, if your study permit will expire soon you must apply to extend it before the expiry date.

You may also want to apply to change your study permit conditions, even if your study permit will not expire soon. A change of conditions will allow you to work on or off campus while studying at SFU (provided you meet certain eligibility requirements).

Apply several months in advance if you need to extend or change the conditions of your study permit (see Extend your study permit for details). If you have plans to travel outside of North America before beginning your classes, ensure your temporary resident visa or electronic travel authorization (if required) is also valid.