Can I Study in Canada with My Family?
Yes, you can! Canada has a welcoming policy that allows international students to bring their spouses and children with them. They can do so during their study period and after they obtain their PGWP. This is particularly applicable for those pursuing a Master’s degree or higher degrees. This policy provides an excellent opportunity for those who wish to study abroad while keeping their family close.
Study in Canada with Family: Who can come with you?
- Spouse: If you are pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree program or eligible professional degree program in Canada, or when you obtain your PGWP, your spouse can come with you by applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit. This Work Permit allows them to work anywhere in Canada legally.
- Children: Your children under the age of 18 (or 19, depending on the province) can accompany you. They will also be eligible for free education from kindergarten through high school. They will need a separate Visitor Visa to come to Canada or will need to apply for a Study Permit before entering Canada if they intend to study.
How to Sponsor Your Spouse in Canada
Sponsoring your spouse while studying in Canada is possible if you are enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program or eligible professional degree program. Your spouse can apply for an Open Work Permit, which is valid for the duration of your study program.
After you graduate and obtain your PGWP, your spouse can apply for an Open Work Permit extension following a different policy. The new Work Permit will be valid for the validity of your PGWP. Other conditions and employment requirements will be applied.
Study in Canada with family and get an unparalleled opportunity
Important Requirements:
- You must be enrolled in a Master’s or doctoral degree program or eligible professional degree program.
- If you have your PGWP, you must provide proof that you are working in an occupation in TEER category 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or you will be working in an occupation in TEER category 0, 1, 2, 3 of the National Occupation Classification system.
- Proof of your marital relationship is required.
As of January 22, 2024, only Master’s or doctoral degree or eligible professional degree students can sponsor their spouse for an Open Work Permit. The Spousal Open Work Permit policy no longer applies to students enrolled in college, undergraduate, or postgraduate programs.
Students enrolling in college, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs can still sponsor the spouse to come and work in Canada after they obtain their PGWP.
Bringing Your Children to Canada
Bringing your children to Canada while you study is straightforward if they meet the age and dependency requirements. Children can be included in your Study Permit application, ensuring they can live and study in Canada during your academic program. This policy applies to all levels of education, from college to postgraduate and Master’s programs.
- Age Requirements: Children under 18 or 19 years old, depending on the province, can join you. For example:
- 18 years old: Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan.
- 19 years old: British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon.
When applying from outside Canada, your children will need a separate Study Permit. They need to apply for a Study Permit instead of a Visitor Visa, even when they are accompanying their parents who have a study or work permit.
If the children are already inside Canada, meet the age requirements to be considered a minor, and have a parent who is authorized to work or study in Canada, they can study without a study permit.
Study in Canada with Family
Study in Canada with Family: Financial Requirements
One of the most critical aspects of bringing your family to Canada is finance. You need to demonstrate that you have the financial means to support them for at least the first year in Canada. This is necessary for both the regular visa process and the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Financial Proof Requirements:
- Regular Visa: Show that you have sufficient assets and income to cover the living and study costs for your entire family for at least the first year.
- Student Direct Stream (SDS): From 2024, applicants must prove they have CAN$20,635 in a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) at a Canadian bank. This amount increases with each additional family member.
| Number of Family Members (including the applicant) | Required Amount Per Year (CAD) |
| 1 | $20,635 |
| 2 | $25,690 |
| 3 | $31,583 |
| 4 | $38,346 |
| 5 | $43,492 |
| 6 | $49,051 |
| 7 | $54,611 |
| For each additional member if more than 7 | +$5,559 |
Conclusion
When you study in Canada with your family, you have access to an unparalleled opportunity. You can gain a high-quality education, experience a better quality of life, and open pathways to permanent residency. The recent changes in Canada’s study policies make pursuing a Master’s degree the best option for those planning to bring their families. With careful planning and financial preparation, you can make your dream of studying in Canada with your family a reality.
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