Canada has long been a top destination for international students, offering world-class education and welcoming immigration policies. One of the most attractive features has been the ability to bring family members, especially spouses, to Canada while studying. However, if you are planning to study in Canada in 2027, the rules have changed significantly.
This guide explains everything you need to know about bringing your spouse to Canada while studying, including the latest policy updates for 2026-2027, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step application process.
Policy Update for 2027 and Major Changes
The Canadian government has implemented stricter rules on family open work permits for spouses of international students. These changes, which began rolling out in 2025, are part of a broader shift to align international education with labour needs and housing capacity.
Who Still Qualifies for a Spousal Open Work Permit in 2027?
Starting in 2025, spousal open work permits will no longer be available to all international students. To be eligible for an open work permit, your spouse must meet one of the following criteria :
| Eligible Program | Details |
| Master’s degree | At least 16 months in duration |
| Doctoral degree | Any duration |
| Professional programs | Medicine (MD), Law (LLB, JD), Nursing (BScN), Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Education (BEd), Engineering (BEng) |
| Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) | Only applies to graduates from this pilot program |
If you are enrolled in a standard 2-year college diploma program or a 1-year certificate program in 2027, your spouse will NOT be eligible for an open work permit. This marks a dramatic shift from previous policies.
What Is Changing in Phases?
| Phase | Timeline | Change |
| Phase 1 | 2026 | New PGWP holders receive employer-specific permits instead of open ones |
| Phase 2 | 2027 | Spousal open work permits were eliminated, replaced with employer-specific authorizations |
| Phase 3 | 2028 | Universal implementation for all temporary foreign workers |
When Will These Changes Be Fully Implemented?
The elimination of open work permits is being phased in:
- 2026: Post-Graduation Work Permit holders lose access to open work permits
- 2027: Spousal open work permits are eliminated
- 2028: Universal implementation for most temporary foreign workers
Visa Options for Your Spouse in 2027
1. Spousal Open Work Permit (Limited Eligibility)
The good news is that your spouse doesn’t have to wait for their application related to the open work. As soon as your program qualifies, your partner can also be permitted to work for any Canadian company.
Eligibility Criteria (must meet all):
- You hold a valid study permit
- You are enrolled in one of the eligible programs listed above
- You are studying full-time
- You can prove the genuineness of your relationship
- You demonstrate sufficient financial resources
Application Timeline: Apply at the same time as your study permit or after you arrive in Canada. However, the fastest and most convenient route is to apply simultaneously. In this case, you include your spouse’s application in your own online application when you submit for your study permit.
2. Visitor Visa
Now, what happens when your program does not qualify for a spousal work permit? In that case, Canada allows your spouse to arrive on a visit visa. This allows them to stay for up to six months, but they cannot work.
3. Visitor Record Extension
For stays longer than six months, your spouse can apply for a visitor record to extend their stay.
4. Study Permit
Your spouse can also apply for a separate study permit if they wish to pursue their own studies in Canada, provided they secure admission to a Designated Learning Institution.
Financial Requirements for 2027
The financial requirements have increased significantly. As of September 1, 2025, the living expense minimum for a single applicant outside Quebec is CAD 22,895. For each additional family member, you must add approximately CAD 6,000 per year.
Example Financial Proof for 2027:
| Scenario | Minimum Funds Required |
| Single student | CAD 22,895 |
| Student + Spouse | CAD 22,895 + ~CAD 6,000 = ~CAD 28,895 |
| Student + Spouse + 1 Child | CAD 22,895 + ~CAD 12,000 = ~CAD 34,895 |
Application Process for Spousal Work Permit
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You need to check the eligibility list first. Your degree or course, whether a master’s or PhD, should be listed on the official list of programs.
Step 2: Gather Documents
| Document | Details |
| Marriage certificate | Proof of legal marriage or common-law status |
| Passport | Valid for the duration of stay |
| Your study permit | Copy of your valid study permit |
| Proof of enrollment | Confirmation of full-time enrollment in an eligible program |
| Financial documents | Bank statements showing sufficient funds for both of you |
| Medical exam | Required for some countries |
| Police certificate | May be required for security clearance |
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can send your completed applications online in a seamless manner. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) looks after those.
Step 4: Complete Biometrics
You need to complete this step that involves you providing your photograph alongside your fingerprints to verify your identity for visa approval.
Step 5: Wait for the Final Decision
Processing times vary. Apply as early as possible.
Opportunities for Spouses
Work Experience Leads to PR
Spouses on an open work permit can gain Canadian work experience, which significantly improves their CRS score for Express Entry under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) .
Access to Healthcare and Education
Spouses and children of international students typically have access to healthcare through university health plans. Children can attend elementary and secondary schools, often at no cost for public education.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking eligibility: Many students assume all spouses qualify for an open work permit. Check this first.
- Insufficient funds: The financial requirement has increased. Ensure you have enough for both of you.
- Missing the simultaneous application deadline: Applying at the same time is highly recommended.
- Not maintaining full-time status: Both the student and spouse must maintain full-time status.
- Not checking processing times: Apply at least 3–4 months before your program starts.
- Not proving relationship genuineness: Provide marriage certificates, joint bank statements, and evidence of cohabitation.
FAQs
1: Can I bring my spouse to Canada while studying in 2027?
Only if you are enrolled in a master’s program (16+ months), a doctoral program, or an eligible professional program.
2: What if my program does NOT qualify?
Your spouse can still visit on a visitor visa but will not be eligible to work.
3: Can my spouse work full-time?
Yes, on an open work permit, your spouse can work full-time for any employer.
4: What happens if my spouse’s work permit expires?
If the permit expires, your spouse must either apply for an extension, switch to a visitor visa, or change immigration status.
5: Can my spouse study while in Canada?
Yes, spouses with an open work permit can apply for a separate study permit and enrol in Canadian programs.
6: Can my spouse apply for PR?
Yes, Canadian work experience gained on an open work permit can help them apply for PR through Express Entry.
Final Thoughts
Bringing your spouse to Canada while studying has become significantly more restrictive in 2027. The eligibility is now limited to students in master’s programs (16+ months), doctoral programs, and specific professional programs. If your program does not qualify, your spouse will not be able to work in Canada, though they may still visit.
Get Ready to Start Your Canadian Journey
AEL Consultants can guide you through every step of the study permit and dependent visa process. Contact Us Today on WhatsApp or Email TODAY and take action instantly to live in Canada with your spouse.
