What is a Canada Spouse Visa for Students?
A Canada Spouse Visa for Students allows international students studying in Canada to bring their spouse or common-law partner. The spouse can also apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP), allowing them to work full-time in Canada while the student completes their studies.
This visa is a great way for international students to live with their families in Canada!
Eligibility for Canada Spouse Visa for International Students
Who Can Apply?
The international student must:
Be enrolled in a full-time program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Hold a valid Canada Study Permit
Be studying in a post-secondary institution (university, college, or polytechnic)
The spouse or partner must:
Be legally married or in a common-law relationship
Apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) or a Visitor Visa
Only students in degree, diploma, or certificate programs can sponsor their spouse for a work permit!
Documents Required for Canada Student Spouse Visa
Documents for the International Student (Sponsor)
Valid Study Permit – Issued by IRCC
Enrollment Letter – From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Proof of Funds – Bank statements, GIC, tuition receipts
Proof of Accommodation – Lease agreement or student housing confirmation
Documents for the Spouse (Applicant)
Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least 12 months
Marriage Certificate – Issued by the government
Relationship Proof – Photos, WhatsApp chats, emails, travel history
Medical Examination Report – From an approved Panel Physician
Two Passport-Sized Photos – As per IRCC specifications
Strong proof of relationship increases the chances of approval!
Processing Time for Canada Spouse Visa for Students (2025)
Visa Type | Processing Time |
Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) | 3 – 6 months |
Visitor Visa for Spouse | 2 – 5 months |
Processing times vary based on IRCC workload and application completeness.
Canada Spouse Visa Fees (2025)
Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
Work Permit (SOWP) Fee | $255 |
Visitor Visa Fee | $100 |
Biometrics Fee | $85 |
Total Cost | $355 – $440 |
The Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows full-time work in Canada!
How to Apply for a Canada Spouse Visa for Students (Step-by-Step Guide)
Check Eligibility – Ensure the student and spouse meet all requirements.
Gather Required Documents – Make sure all documents are complete and accurate.
Apply Online via IRCC Portal – Create an account and submit the visa application.
Pay the Visa Fees – Payment must be made online.
Attend Biometrics & Medical Exam – As per IRCC’s schedule.
Application Processing & Background Checks – IRCC reviews the application.
Receive Visa Decision – If approved, the spouse can travel to Canada.
Submitting a complete and well-documented application increases approval chances!
Can the Spouse Work in Canada on a Spouse Visa?
Yes! They can apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Work full-time in any industry without restrictions
Gain Canadian work experience and apply for Canada PR later
This is a great option for spouses to earn and support their family!
Canada Spouse Visa vs. Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Feature | Spouse Visa (Visitor) | Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) |
Can Work in Canada? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Processing Time | ⏳ 2 – 5 months | ⏳ 3 – 6 months |
Validity | 📅 Based on student visa duration | 📅 Based on student visa duration |
If your spouse wants to work in Canada, apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit instead of a Visitor Visa!
Can Children of International Students Get a Visa?
Yes! Children of international students can apply for a Dependent Visa.
Children can study in Canada without a study permit if they are under 18 years old.
The spouse and children can apply together with the international student.
A complete family visa application is possible!
Common Reasons for Canada Spouse Visa Rejection
Insufficient Proof of Relationship – Weak or fake relationship documents
Financial Instability – No proof of sufficient funds
Missing or Incorrect Documents – Expired passport, missing translations
Incomplete Application – Incorrectly filled visa forms
To avoid rejection, submit a complete and well-documented application!
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