Being an international student in Canada is an advantage in bringing other family members to reside there. It is not necessary to have a permanent residence visa to bring along spouses or dependent children as long as they satisfy the requirement to leave the country at the end of their studies. A study permit is also a temporary resident permit and might affect the visa officer’s decision when issuing an extension for other family members.
During the application for the study permit, applicants can use the statement section to explain why they wish to bring their spouse or dependent children while studying. If the immigration officer finds the explanation convincing, they can decide to issue the visa or not. However, applying for the study permit first without family members is faster than getting approval for access. Therefore, it is best you submit the study permit application before asking for an amended application to accommodate your family members.
Even with this strategy, getting the visa approved might be tricky and lead to a five-year ban if the application seems misrepresented. The applicant must follow all the procedures and provide appropriate documents and proof of funds for their stay and that of their family members. The international student should also note that having family members come with you means there will be an increase in basic needs like housing and health insurance. If this can be settled, then the applicant is eligible to travel.
How can an international student bring a spouse to Canada?
As an international student looking to bring in their spouse with their Canadian study permit, you must consider all the above-stated points before expecting approval. However, if you get your study permit approved by your spouse, then your spouse becomes eligible to start the application for a spousal open work permit. With the work permit, your spouse can work for a Canadian employer full time, which shouldn’t exceed the timeline of your study permit. Note also that your spouse cannot use your study permit to apply for another study permit for themselves; instead, a different application is advised.
Can I bring dependent children?
It is possible to bring in your dependent children with your Canadian study permit, provided you understand its impact on the permit. Your dependent children will also get a visa issued to them that will expire once your study duration is over. All minor children must study in Canada in any school approved by their parents.
According to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada, a dependent child is below 22 years. This means for you to bring in a dependent child above 22 years, it must only be in a case of a physical or mental condition, and they can’t support themselves financially.
