Canada welcomes not just students but their spouses too! How to include your family members/spouse on Study Visa

Foreign individuals who are considering studying in Canada and have family members (spouse and/or dependent children) may want to bring them along during their study program. However, it’s important to note that including family members on a student visa application can influence the decision made by the Canadian visa officer.

Student visa in Canada are temporary, meaning that the visa officer must be convinced that the visa holder intends to leave Canada when the visa expires. Sometimes, when a student requests to bring their entire family to Canada, the visa officer may question whether the student genuinely plans to leave the country after completing their studies. This can impact the decision to issue the student visa.

All student visa applicants are required to provide a statement explaining their motivation for pursuing education in Canada. In this statement, applicants can clarify why they wish to have their spouse and/or children accompany them to Canada. However, it’s important to understand that the ultimate decision regarding the approval of a study visa in Canada rests with the immigration officer. It’s worth mentioning that a person can initially apply for a study visa without including their family members and later submit an amended application to request authorization for their family to join them in Canada.

However, seeking to modify an application in this manner can lead to misrepresentation, resulting in a five-year ban from Canada, unless the applicant adheres to the correct procedures. Applicants are required to demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their first year of study. Those who intend to have their family members join them should be prepared to show additional funds to support their family. When international students are accompanied by their spouse and/or dependent children, they should be mindful of the impact this will have on their housing and health insurance requirements.

When it comes to pursuing higher education, the idea of studying in Canada is incredibly appealing. Known for its world-class universities, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, Canada is a top destination for international students. However, if you’re considering studying in Canada and you want your spouse or children to accompany you, you may be wondering about the process. Nexus Migration, a leading immigration consultancy based in Dubai, can assist you in navigating this journey.

Applying for a study visa in Canada while bringing your family along is a significant decision. In this blog, we will guide you through the process, providing valuable insights and information on how Nexus Migration can help you achieve your educational and family goals.

Understanding Study Visa with Family in Canada

Before delving into the specifics of the application process, it’s essential to understand that a Canadian student visa is a temporary resident visa. This means that you must convince the visa officer that you intend to leave Canada when your study visa expires. Here’s where things can get a bit complicated if you wish to bring your family with you.

Including Your Spouse 

A foreign national is encouraged to add their spouse to their application for a Canadian study visa, while keeping in mind the aforementioned implications for study visa approval. If a foreign national is granted a student visa for Canada with their spouse accompanying them, the spouse can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time for any employer in Canada for the same duration as their partner’s study visa. If both partners intend to pursue studies in Canada, they must each apply for separate study visas.

Including Your Dependent Children 

A foreign national is welcome to include their dependent children in their application for a Canadian study visa, while being aware of the previously mentioned effects on study visa approval. If a foreign national is granted a study visa in Canada with their dependent child accompanying them, the child will receive a visa permitting them to stay in Canada for the same duration as the primary applicant’s visa. All minor children have the right to pursue education at the preschool, primary, or secondary levels, provided that one of their parents is authorised to work or study in Canada.

According to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, a ‘dependent child’ is defined as an individual under 22 years of age without a spouse or partner. An individual over 22 years old may still be considered dependent if they are unable to financially support themselves due to a mental or physical condition.

What is common law sponsorship?

Common-law sponsorship, as per Canadian immigration regulations, treats these relationships as equal to traditional marriages. To qualify for sponsorship, you must provide evidence of your common-law partnership, including proof of cohabitation in a marriage-like relationship for a period exceeding 12 months.

Who can sponsor?

Individuals who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents can potentially sponsor their spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner through the spousal sponsorship program if they meet the following criteria:

• Being a minimum of 18 years old
• Residing in Canada or having intentions to return to Canada once their spouse or partner obtains permanent residency in Canada
• Demonstrating the capability and willingness to support their spouse or partner’s essential financial requirements for a period of three years.

We can assist you in preparing a strong student visa application for Canada, including the inclusion of your family members. Here are some key points to consider when working with Nexus Migration

• Credential Verification: We ensure that your application aligns with the Canadian immigration authorities requirements, increasing the chances of approval.
• Financial Support: You will be required to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your family during your studies in Canada. We can help you gather the necessary financial documentation.
• Housing and Health Insurance: When you bring your spouse and/or children, it’s essential to consider how this will affect your housing and health insurance requirements. Nexus Migration provides valuable guidance in this regard.

We are well-versed in the intricacies of Canadian immigration. We can provide you with a clear and accurate understanding of the process. Our expertise ensures that your application stands the best chance of success.