Can my spouse and children come to Canada with me while I study?
Immediate family members — a spouse or common-law partner and dependent children — may be able to accompany you to Canada while you hold a study permit, but they need their own authorization to enter and remain in Canada. They are not automatically covered by your study permit.
Spouses and common-law partners of eligible study permit holders may apply for an open work permit, which allows them to work for any employer in Canada. This has historically been linked to programs at specific levels (such as post-secondary), and eligibility criteria have evolved. Children may be permitted to attend Canadian schools as dependents.
Each family member must apply for their own documents. Processing times, eligibility criteria, and document requirements vary. Because federal rules on spousal work permits in this area have changed over time, it is important to confirm current policy with IRCC or an immigration lawyer rather than relying on information that may be outdated.
Key takeaways
- Family members need their own documents — they are not covered by your study permit
- Spouses of eligible students may qualify for an open work permit
- Children may attend Canadian school as dependents
- Spousal work permit eligibility rules have changed — confirm current policy before applying