Open Study Permits for Spouses of Students & Workers in Canada
Open Study Permits for Family Members of Foreign Workers and Students in Canada: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to move to Canada with your spouse or partner who’s an international student or foreign worker, there’s great news — you may be eligible for an open study permit that gives you the freedom to study at any school in Canada, without jumping through the usual hoops like submitting a letter of acceptance (LOA) or paying a tuition deposit up front.
Let’s walk through what this means, who qualifies, and how it all works.
Key Highlights
- Spouses and common-law partners of international students or foreign workers can apply for open study permits.
- These permits are not tied to a specific Designated Learning Institution (DLI), allowing greater flexibility in choosing schools.
- Applicants are exempt from providing a letter of acceptance (LOA) or a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).
- Open study permits help reduce initial study costs by possibly avoiding upfront tuition deposits.
- The permits are valid for the same duration as the principal applicant’s work or study permit.
- This exemption only applies to first-time applicants from outside Canada.
What Is an Open Study Permit?
Unlike a regular study permit, which requires you to be accepted by a specific institution, an open study permit allows you to enroll in post-secondary education in Canada without being tied to one particular DLI. It’s especially helpful for spouses or common-law partners of students or workers coming to Canada.
Even better, these permits are PAL-exempt — meaning you don’t need a Provincial Attestation Letter to apply. That can save you time and help you avoid the complications that come with Canada’s study permit cap system.
Who Is Considered an Accompanying Family Member?
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you’re considered an accompanying family member if you’re included in your spouse or partner’s study or work permit application and plan to enter Canada with them.
This includes:
- The spouse of the primary applicant
- A common-law partner
- Dependent children (including those of your spouse or partner)
These open study permits are primarily geared towards spouses and partners, but it’s always good to check the specifics with your immigration consultant or local Canadian visa office.
Eligibility: What Conditions Do You Have to Meet?
To qualify for an open study permit as an accompanying family member, you must:
- Apply for your study permit before entering Canada
- Be the spouse or partner of someone whose study or work permit application has already been approved in writing
If these two conditions are met, you can apply for a study permit from your home country without having to first secure an admission letter (LOA) from a Canadian school. That’s a big win for flexibility and avoiding upfront barriers.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s say your partner is heading to Canada for a university program. Here’s how the process might look:
- Principal applicant (your partner) applies for a study permit:
- They get an LOA from a DLI
- If required, they also obtain a PAL
- They apply for their study permit from outside Canada
- Study permit is approved:
- IRCC sends them a letter of introduction (approval) before they travel
- You apply for your open study permit:
- You must also apply from outside Canada, before travel
- You submit your application with:
- Proof of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate)
- A copy of your partner’s study permit approval
- IRCC reviews your application:
- If approved, you receive an open study permit valid for the same period as your partner’s
Once you’re in Canada, you can choose your school and program. You can even wait until you settle in before enrolling — there’s no rush to pick a school ahead of time.
Bonus: Fewer Upfront Costs
Typically, Canadian schools ask students to pay a deposit to confirm their seat. That deposit often counts toward tuition and helps the school request a PAL, which is required to issue a study permit under the usual system.
But since open study permit holders don’t count toward the school’s quota under the study permit cap, you might not need to pay that deposit at all, depending on the institution’s policies. That’s another big plus to consider.
What Happens Next? Renewals and Changing Schools
It’s important to know that these open study permits are a one-time exemption that only applies when you first apply from abroad as the spouse or partner of an approved permit holder.
If you want to extend your study permit later on, or transfer to a different school, things change. You’ll be treated like any other in-Canada student and must follow the standard process, which includes:
- Getting a valid LOA from a DLI
- Providing a PAL or other required documentation (unless you qualify for a specific exemption)
This means planning ahead is key. If you think you’ll be studying for a longer period or might want to switch programs, be sure to gather the right documents when the time comes.
Final Thoughts
Canada continues to be one of the most welcoming countries for international students and their families. The open study permit for accompanying spouses and partners is just another example of how the system is designed to support families staying together — and thriving — while one member studies or works here.
If you’re planning to come to Canada with your spouse or common-law partner and want to explore your study options, this permit can make your journey a lot smoother. No need to lock into a school right away, no upfront tuition deposits, and more time to figure out what’s best for your future in Canada.
Thinking about studying in Manitoba? You might want to look into the Manitoba PNP to see potential immigration pathways after your studies.
Ready to get started? Learn more about your study permit options and take the first step toward building your future in Canada.
Have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us for help with your application process.
