Bringing family to Canada
Family member means a spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children.
Options available
Visitor visas
A Temporary Resident Visa in Canada (TRV) is required for visitors from certain countries and territories who want to enter Canada. If you are inviting your family members for a short duration you can apply for Visitor Visa based on your study visa.
Visa applications cannot be submitted at Canadian Ports of Entry, and in some cases, a medical examination may be required. As a result, processing for your application can take much longer.
Spouses open Work Permits
Students who are enrolled full-time and have a valid study permit may assist their spouse or common-law partner in obtaining an open work permit. The spouse or common-law partner of an overseas student may work if they have an open work permit, which is typically good for the duration of the student's study permit. The student must be enrolled in full-time studies and possess a current study permit at:
- a post-secondary public institution; or
- a private post-secondary institution that operates in accordance with public institution policies and gets government funding for 50% of its entire operating costs; alternatively
- a private institution that is permitted to award degrees per provincial law.
The timing and application process for a spouse work permit
In most cases, a work permit application can be processed concurrently with a study permit application at Canadian visa offices abroad. In such circumstances, the applicant(s) must also include work permit processing fees in addition to the study permit application fees.
On the other hand, the spouse or common-law partner may travel to Canada as a visitor and then submit a work permit application once they get there. This work visa application can be made at a Canadian Port of Entry by nationals of nations that do not demand a TRV. Citizens of nations that require visas occasionally should also think about submitting a Port of Entry application.
Applying Jointly
If you intend to bring your family to Canada to join you while you pursue your studies and you'll be arriving at the same time, you might want to think about submitting a single application. You will require additional papers and additional costs if you are applying for several permits (such as your work permit and your spouse's or common-law partner's work permit) (such as the additional fee for the work permit).
Extensions
While you are in Canada, you may extend or modify your conditions, but you must submit a separate application. If you want to extend your stay, make sure to verify the expiration date on your study permit and submit your application at least 30 days before that time.
