Canada: Apply for Student and Spouse Visas Together

Yes, it is possible to apply for both a Canadian student visa and a spouse visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa for your spouse) at the same time, but there are important factors to consider when doing so:

1. Student Visa (Study Permit)

• If you're planning to study in Canada, you will need to apply for a study permit (student visa). To qualify, you must:

o Be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

o Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel.

o Prove that you plan to leave Canada after your studies (if you're applying for a temporary study permit).

2. Spouse Visa (Temporary Resident Visa or Open Work Permit)

• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): If your spouse is applying for a visa to accompany you, they may need to apply for a TRV (depending on their nationality and the requirements of the Canadian visa office). The TRV allows your spouse to stay in Canada for the duration of your study period, provided they meet the entry requirements.

• Open Work Permit: In many cases, your spouse may be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit if you're a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This would allow them to work while in Canada. They must apply for this permit at the same time as your study permit or after your study permit is approved.

Key Considerations When Applying Together:

• Separate Applications: Even though you're applying together, the two applications (study permit for you and TRV/Open Work Permit for your spouse) will be processed separately. You need to submit each application according to its specific requirements.

• Proof of Relationship: When applying for your spouse’s visa, you will need to provide proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate, to show that your spouse is accompanying you to Canada.

• Sufficient Funds: Both you and your spouse need to show that you have sufficient financial support to cover both your studies and living expenses, as well as your spouse’s stay. This could include bank statements, affidavits, or proof of financial sponsorship.

• Intent to Return: For the study permit, you must prove that you plan to leave Canada once your studies are complete. While your spouse can apply for a TRV or open work permit, they will also need to demonstrate their intent to leave Canada when their status expires.

Possible Scenarios:

1. You Apply for a Study Permit and Your Spouse Applies for a TRV:

o If your spouse is not eligible for an open work permit, they can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to accompany you to Canada while you study. The TRV will allow them to stay in Canada as a visitor, but they will not be able to work unless they apply separately for a work permit.

2. You Apply for a Study Permit and Your Spouse Applies for an Open Work Permit:

o If you are a full-time student at a recognized institution, your spouse may be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit. This allows them to work while you're studying. The application for the open work permit can be made along with your study permit application or after your study permit is approved.

Process for Applying Together:

• Both Applications Together: You can submit both applications (study permit for you and a work permit or TRV for your spouse) at the same time. This can be done either online or by submitting paper applications to the Canadian visa office.

• Submit Complete Documents: Be sure to submit all required documents for both the study permit and your spouse's visa to avoid delays. This includes financial proof, proof of acceptance from your institution, your marriage certificate, and more.

Final Note:

While it’s entirely possible for you and your spouse to apply for both types of visas simultaneously, it’s essential to follow the specific guidelines provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure a smooth process. Some visa applications can be more complex depending on your individual circumstances, so it may be helpful to consult with an immigration consultant or lawyer to guide you through the process.

Good luck with your applications!