Can my spouse get a visa to join me while I study in Canada?

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can come to Canada while you study, subject to eligibility conditions. Here is how it works:

Visitor Visa (most straightforward):
Your spouse can apply for a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa — TRV) to come to Canada and be with you. As a visitor, they cannot work. They can stay for up to 6 months and renew by leaving and re-entering or extending online.

Open Work Permit for spouses:
If you are enrolled in a post-secondary programme (bachelor's degree or higher at a university) your spouse may be eligible for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work for any Canadian employer. As of 2024, this was restricted for college diploma students — check current IRCC rules.

Requirements for spouse to come:
- Valid passport
- TRV or eTA if applicable
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate or evidence of 12+ months cohabitation for common-law)
- Proof you are enrolled in a programme in Canada
- Evidence of financial support for both of you
- Intent to return home after the permitted stay (for visitor visas)

Processing time: TRVs currently take 4–12 weeks depending on the applicant's country. OWPs take 8–20 weeks.

Biometrics: Required for most nationalities (CAD 85).

Children: Dependent children can usually come as visitors or get a study permit for Canadian schools without additional fees for K–12 in most provinces.

Consult a RCIC-registered immigration consultant to ensure you are applying for the right visa type for your specific circumstances.