Can my spouse and children come with me while I study in Canada?

Family members can generally accompany an international student to Canada, but the work rights for spouses changed in 2025. A spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit only if you are in a qualifying program, such as a master's of 16 months or longer, a doctoral program, or a select professional program.

Your spouse can still apply to come as a visitor even if they do not qualify for a work permit, and dependent children can typically accompany you. If you want your family to work or study in Canada too, check each family member's specific eligibility before applying.