Can my wife join me on a Canadian study visa?

Yes, your wife can accompany you to Canada while you are on a study visa for graduate school. She can apply for a spousal open work permit or a visitor visa, depending on her plans and eligibility.

Key Points:

1. Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP):

o Allows your wife to work full-time in Canada for any employer.

o The permit is usually valid for the same duration as your study permit.

o To qualify, you need to show proof of your study permit and that you are enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

2. Visitor Visa:

o If she does not intend to work, she can apply for a visitor visa.

o This visa allows her to stay with you for the duration of your study permit but does not permit her to work.

o She may also take short-term courses of six months or less if desired.

3. Proof of Funds:

o You need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support both yourself and your wife in Canada.

4. Application Process:

o The application for the spousal permit or visitor visa can be submitted alongside your study permit application or separately.

5. Child Accompaniment (if applicable):

o Dependent children can also accompany you and may study in Canada without a separate study permit if one of the parents holds a valid study or work permit.

Consult the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or seek professional advice to ensure compliance with the latest immigration regulations.