Canada Student Dependent Visa Requirements

December 27, 2023

Do you know how to get Canada Student Dependent Visa Requirements? In recent years, Canada has emerged as a top destination for international students seeking quality education and diverse cultural experiences. As students from around the world flock to Canadian universities, many bring their families along, leading to an increased interest in Canadian student-dependent visas.

If you have a common-in-law studying in Canada and wish to join your common-in-law, check the requirements below to know if you qualify for a Canada student-dependent visa.

What is The Canadian Dependent Visa?

A Canada student-dependent visa is designed for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of international students studying in Canada. This visa enables family members to join their loved ones during their academic pursuits in the Great White North. To be eligible for this visa, you must possess the following:

Eligibility Criteria for Dependents

You must be in a genuine relationship with the student in Canada

For spouse or common-law partner: The applicant must be legally married to the student or in a genuine common-law relationship.

To prove your relationship with your partner in Canada, you need to provide legal documentation, such as a marriage certificate or proof of cohabitation and commitment for common-law partners.

Children under the age of 22 who are unmarried and not in a common-law relationship can be included in the Canada student dependent visa application but you need to provide their birth certificates and any other relevant documentation proving the relationship between the international student and their dependent children.

For children approaching the age of 22, you need to complete the application process before their birthday to maintain eligibility.

Proof of Financial Support

You need to show that the person studying in Canada (the main student) has enough money to support the family. You can provide your bank statements, income tax returns, employment letters, or any other document showing that you have enough funds to support yourself and your dependents.

The Canadian government wants to ensure that dependents won’t become a financial burden on the student or the Canadian social system.

You need to go for a medical examination

Depending on the length of the dependent’s intended stay in Canada, medical examinations may be required for each dependent. This is to ensure that individuals entering the country do not pose a health risk and can access necessary medical services.

Police clearance certificate

A police clearance certificate is typically required for each dependent from the country where they have lived for the past six months or more. This certificate helps assess the background and character of the applicants.

Travel history

Details of the dependent’s travel history are often requested, including information about any previous visas to Canada or any other country. This information helps immigration authorities assess the individual’s travel patterns and compliance with visa regulations.

Photographs

You need recent passport-sized photographs of each dependent. These photos must meet the specifications outlined by the Canadian immigration authorities and should be attached to the respective application forms.

Valid Passport

Each dependent must possess a valid passport that covers the entire duration of their intended stay in Canada. It’s important to ensure that passports are not close to expiration during the planned period of residence.

Completed application forms

Submission of completed application forms is a standard requirement. Each dependent, including spouses and children, must typically fill out and submit their application forms.

How to Apply for a Dependent Visa

Determine your eligibility

Before you start applying, confirm that you are eligible for a dependent visa in Canada, you may be eligible if your spouse or parent is a student in the country.

Gather required documents

Collect all the necessary documents for the application. Common documents include:
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate).
Letter of acceptance from the educational institution where the primary applicant is enrolled.
Valid passports for all family members.
Completed application forms for each dependent.
Passport-sized photographs for each applicant.
Financial proof of the main applicant’s ability to support dependents.

Complete application forms

Fill out the application forms accurately and completely. Follow the instructions provided by the immigration authorities, as incomplete forms may lead to delays or rejection.

Pay fees

Pay the required visa fees. This can usually be done online or at designated payment centers. Keep the payment receipts as proof.

Schedule medical examination

If a medical examination is required, schedule it with an approved panel physician. The results are usually sent directly to the immigration authorities.

Obtain police clearance

Obtain police clearance certificates from the relevant authorities in each country where you’ve lived for a certain period. This demonstrates that you have no criminal record.

Submit application

Submit the completed application forms, along with all supporting documents, to the designated visa office. Some countries allow online submission, while others may require physical documents.

Wait for processing

The processing time for dependent visas varies. Check the estimated processing times on the immigration website. Be patient during this period.

Receive the visa

Once the application is approved, you will receive the dependent visa. Check the validity dates and any conditions attached to the visa. If you have a relative studying in Canada and you are eligible to obtain a dependent visa, you can apply if you meet the requirements stated above.

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