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Canada Open Study Permit for Family Members – Trusted Immigration Consultant Advice

December 6, 2025

Canada Open Study Permit for Family Members – Trusted Immigration Consultant Advice

Open Study Permits in Canada: A Complete Guide for Families of Students and Workers

Canada continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for international students and skilled workers. In 2025–2026, accompanying family members now have the unique opportunity to obtain open study permits, allowing them to study at any Canadian institution without being tied to a specific Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

This initiative provides families with flexibility, reduced financial barriers, and the freedom to pursue education together while settling in Canada. At MyWorld Immigration, our team of expert immigration consultants guides families through every step of the application process to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.

Who Can Apply for an Open Study Permit?

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), accompanying family members eligible for an open study permit include:

  • The spouse of the principal applicant (international student or foreign worker)
  • The common-law partner of the principal applicant
  • Dependent children of the principal applicant, including dependents of the spouse

This program ensures that families can stay together while taking advantage of Canada’s world-class education system.

Key Benefits of the Open Study Permit

Family members applying for an open study permit can enjoy several advantages:

  • DLI Exemption – No need for a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a specific Designated Learning Institution when applying from outside Canada
  • Reduced upfront costs – Often no tuition deposit required to secure enrollment
  • Flexibility – Freedom to choose any school in any Canadian province
  • Concurrent study – Begin studies while accompanying the principal applicant without restrictions

These benefits make it significantly easier for spouses and dependents to pursue education in Canada while staying together with their loved ones.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an open study permit as a family member, applicants must:

  1. Apply before entering Canada
  2. Be an accompanying family member of a foreign national whose work or study permit has already been approved
  3. The permit is issued without a specific DLI listed and remains valid until the expiry date of the principal applicant’s permit

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how the process typically works for a spouse or dependent:

  1. The principal applicant (student or worker) receives their Canadian study or work permit approval.
  2. IRCC issues a letter of introduction or approval to the principal applicant.
  3. The spouse, partner, or dependent applies from outside Canada as an accompanying family member.
  4. The application includes:
    • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate or common-law documentation)
    • Copy of the principal applicant’s study or work permit approval letter
  5. IRCC reviews the application and, if approved, issues an open study permit.

This permit allows the family member to enroll in a school of their choice without being restricted by a DLI or upfront tuition deposits.

Renewals, Extensions, and Changing Schools

  • The DLI exemption applies only for the initial application from outside Canada.
  • For subsequent extensions or school changes, a new study permit may be required, including a valid LOA and potentially a PAL/TAL depending on the situation.
  • Standard study permit rules apply for renewals within Canada.

Why This Program Matters for Families

The open study permit initiative is a game-changer for families of international students and foreign workers:

  • Greater educational flexibility
  • Reduced financial and administrative barriers
  • Ability to pursue education anywhere in Canada while accompanying a loved one

At MyWorld Immigration, our experienced consultants help families navigate the program efficiently, ensuring all applications meet IRCC requirements and are submitted correctly the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can spouses work while holding an open study permit?
Yes, spouses may be eligible to work in Canada if they also obtain an open work permit.

Q2: Do children need a school-specific LOA for this program?
No, dependent children can enroll in schools without a DLI letter for the initial application.

Q3: How long is the open study permit valid?
The permit is valid until the principal applicant’s permit expires.

Q4: Can I change schools after arriving in Canada?
Yes, but a new study permit may be required depending on the school and province.

Q5: Do I need to apply for the open study permit before arriving in Canada?
Yes, the DLI exemption only applies when applying from outside Canada as a family member.

Take Action Today – Secure Your Open Study Permit

Don’t let administrative hurdles or missed opportunities keep your family apart. With the MyWorld Immigration team guiding you, your spouse, partner, or children can study in Canada legally while accompanying you, without unnecessary delays or complications.

Contact MyWorld Immigration now to start your application and secure your family’s educational future in Canada.

Contact MyWorld Immigration

Phone / WhatsApp: +1-778-881-9000
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration

Act fast – every day counts. Begin your journey to study and live in Canada with the help of expert immigration consultants today.

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