Choosing to study in Canada is an exciting step for many international students. Along with gaining access to top-quality education, students also get to experience Canada’s vibrant culture and diverse communities. But for those who are married or in a common-law relationship, one of the biggest questions is: Can my spouse come with me to Canada while I’m studying?

The answer depends on whether you’re looking at temporary options, like a study permit or work permit, or long-term immigration pathways such as spousal sponsorship.

Understanding Spousal Sponsorship

Spousal sponsorship is one of the key ways that Canadian citizens and permanent residents can bring their spouse or common-law partner to live with them in Canada permanently. Through this program, the sponsored spouse can eventually become a permanent resident.

However, international students in Canada on a study permit are not eligible to sponsor their spouse for permanent residency. Sponsorship is only available if the sponsor is already a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. That being said, there are still options for your spouse or partner to join you in Canada while you study.

Bringing Your Spouse to Canada on a Student Visa

If you are an international student, your spouse or common-law partner may be able to come to Canada on a visitor visa, study permit, or an open work permit. When you apply for your own study permit, you can include your spouse or partner’s application at the same time.

This means that while you focus on your studies, your spouse may be able to work or study in Canada as well. However, this is considered temporary status and not the same as becoming a permanent resident through spousal sponsorship.

Common-Law Partners and the 1-Year Requirement

For couples in common-law relationships, Canadian immigration law requires proof that you have lived together continuously for at least 12 months in order to qualify for spousal sponsorship.

This can sometimes be a challenge if one partner lives outside Canada. For example, a visitor visa usually allows someone to stay for only six months at a time. The good news is that visitor visas can be extended, sometimes multiple times, depending on the circumstances.

Alternatively, your partner may apply for their own study permit or work permit, both of which usually allow for a longer stay in Canada. These options can help couples meet the one-year cohabitation requirement needed for common-law sponsorship applications.

How Long Are Study and Work Permits Valid?

• Study permits: Usually valid for the length of the academic program, plus an extra 90 days.
• Work permits: Typically valid for one to two years, although the exact duration depends on factors like passport validity and the type of work permit issued.

Both of these permits provide a practical way for couples to live together in Canada while building toward eligibility for spousal sponsorship.

Bring Your Spouse to Canada

Fill out a FREE spousal sponsorship assessment form to see if you qualify.

Temporary vs. Permanent Options

• Temporary residents: International students can include their spouse or common-law partner in their study permit application, giving both partners legal status to live in Canada during the program of study.
• Permanent residents: Only Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residency through the spousal sponsorship program.

If you are studying in Canada but planning to remain permanently, understanding the difference between temporary permits and spousal sponsorship is essential for planning your future.

Why Work with a Spousal Sponsorship Lawyer?

Navigating Canadian immigration rules can be complex, especially when trying to balance temporary options like study permits with long-term goals like spousal sponsorship. The Immigration Law Firm of Matthew Jeffery can guide you through the requirements, ensure your applications are complete, and improve your chances of success.

At the Immigration Law Firm of Matthew Jeffery, we have over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families reunite in Canada. Whether you’re looking to sponsor a spouse to Canada as a student or need advice on permanent residency options, our team is here to help.

Fill out our free spousal sponsorship assessment form to see how we can support your journey.