Conditions for Parents to Accompany Minor Students with a Canadian Study VisaImmigrating to Canada for the education of minor children is a significant concern for many parents. This article outlines the conditions, required documents, and necessary guidance for parents intending to accompany their child in Canada. All information is based on official sources from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).1. Appropriate Visa Types for Accompanying ParentsParents with children under 18 or 19 (depending on the province) may apply through these pathways:Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): Allows temporary stay in Canada, typically for up to six months.Super Visa: If a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may be eligible for a Super Visa, allowing up to two years of stay.Open Work Permit: Parents who wish to work while accompanying their child may apply for this permit.2. Required Documents for Accompanying ParentsTo accompany their child to Canada, parents must provide the following:Child’s Letter of Acceptance: From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).Proof of Funds: Parents must demonstrate they can support themselves and the child financially. Annual living expenses include:CAD 10,000 for the studentCAD 4,000 for the first accompanying person (parent or guardian)CAD 3,000 for each additional accompanying personIdentity Documents: Valid passport, the child’s birth certificate, and documents proving parentalrelationship.Custodianship Declaration Form: Required if the child under 17 travels to Canada without a parent. If a parent is present, this form is not necessary.
. Financial Proof and RequirementParents must show financial capability through:Bank statements for the past four monthsDocuments showing fund transfers to CanadaSponsorship or scholarship letters (if applicable)Tuition and housing paymentsAccording to IRCC, students with accompanying parents in most provinces (excluding Quebec) should have a minimum of CAD 25,690 annually (excluding tuition) for one parent and child.
4. Provincial Legal Age RegulationsThe age of majority varies by province:18 years in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta19 years in othersMinors must be under parental or legal guardian supervision. Boarding school attendance may reduce the need for full-time parental presence.5. Super Visa for ParentsFor extended stay:Super Visa: Allows parents to stay in Canada for up to two years. Requires valid health insurance and proof of financial support by the child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.6. Health InsuranceInternational students generally require private health insurance since most provinces don’t offer public coverageParents must also have travel or medical insurance for their stay.
7. Final GuidanceAccompanying parents not only fulfill legal requirements but also positively impact the child’s academic success and emotional well-being. Parents should:Prepare all necessary documents in advancePlan financially according to the child’s study durationConsult an immigration lawyer or RCIC for further assistanceVisit Canada.ca for more detailed information. A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) can assist significantly with various aspects of the immigration and accompaniment process for minors.
Role of an Immigration Lawyer1. Personal AssessmentLawyers can evaluate your and your child’s situation and recommend the best immigration pathway (accompanying visa, Super Visa, or work permit). They also keep you updated on any changes to immigration laws.2. Document Preparation and ReviewForm Completion: Assistance with filling out visa forms, identity documents, financial proof, and custodianship forms.Document Review: Ensures compliance with IRCC standards.3. Application ManagementSubmits applications to IRCC on your behalfTracks application status and resolves issues if they arise4. Financial and Legal PlanninHelps calculate living and tuition expensesGuides on legal guardianship if necessary5. Support in Case of RejectionHandles appeals or reconsideration requestsIncreases chances of success with experience6. Guidance for Permanent ResidencyAdvises on long-term pathways like sponsorship and other immigration programs7. Protecting Your Legal RightsEnsures your rights are respected throughout the immigration process8. Educational Planning AdviceSome immigration lawyers specialize in education and can help select the right school or university.How to Find a Suitable Immigration LawyerEnsure the lawyer or consultant is a licensed member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)Check resumes, experience, and client reviewsVerify their expertise in student visas and parent accompaniment
ConclusionA certified immigration lawyer can simplify the complex process of immigration and significantly boost your application’s success. Especially for parents wishing to accompany their minor children to Canada, this is a worthwhile investment.
Comprehensive Guide to Spouse Accompaniment with a Study Visa in Canada (2025)One of the major concerns for international students in Canada is whether their spouse and family can accompany them during their studies. Canada offers open work permits for spouses of international students, allowing them to live and work freely while supporting the family financially.
Open Work Permit for Spouses of International StudentsThis permit allows the spouse or common-law partner of an international student to live in Canada and work for any employer without restrictions. It’s designed to ease financial and emotional pressures on students.Eligibility Criteria for Open Work PermitValid Study Permit: The primary student must have a valid Canadian study permit.Full-Time Enrollment: The student must be enrolled full-time at a DLI.Proof of Relationship: Legal documentation (e.g., marriage certificate) is required to prove the spousal relationship.
Permit Validity PeriodThe open work permit is usually valid for the same duration as the student’s study permit. It can be extended if the student receives a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)Benefits of the Open Work PermitNo Job Restrictions: No job offer or LMIA is needed.Financial Support: The spouse’s income can help cover living and education expenses.Family Cohesion: Families can stay together during the study period.Required DocumentsConfirmation of student’s full-time enrollmentCopy of the student’s study permit and valid passportTranslated marriage certificateProof of financial capabilityApplication ProcessApply online through the IRCC portalPay the application fee (approx. CAD 255)Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if required
2025 Regulation UpdatesRecent updates allow most international students’ family members to apply for open work permits. Also, dependent children may attend Canadian schools with a study or visitor visa.
FAQCan we apply for the study and spousal visas at the same time?
Yes, joint applications are possible and will be processed together.Can the spouse apply for an open work permit after arriving in Canada?
Yes, as long as the student meets the eligibility criteria, the spouse can apply from within Canada.Is the open work permit renewable?
Yes, if the student’s permit is extended, the spouse’s permit can be renewed as well.
ConclusionAn open work permit is an excellent opportunity for spouses of international students to stay together and manage financial responsibilities during the study period. With proper planning and complete documentation, the chances of approval increase significantly. For more details, visit the official IRCC website.