Canada continues to strengthen its commitment to family-friendly immigration policies. With the newly introduced open study permits for family members of international students and foreign workers, thousands of families now have a smoother pathway to study, live, and grow together in Canada.
At Countrywide Visas, we aim to simplify these updates and provide expert guidance to help you take full advantage of this new opportunity.

What Are Open Study Permits for Family Members?

The Government of Canada now allows eligible family members of international students and foreign workers to apply for open study permits without:

• A Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a school
• A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
• A school seat reservation fee or deposit

These open study permits:

• Are not tied to any one Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Allow the holder to study at any eligible school across Canada
• Reduce the financial and documentation burden
• Make it easier to start studying immediately upon arrival

This is one of Canada’s most flexible and family-supportive immigration updates.

Who Is Eligible?

1. Spouses or Common-Law Partners

If your spouse/partner has been approved for a Canadian study or work permit, you may qualify for an open study permit as their accompanying family member.

2. Dependent Children

Dependent children (usually under 22 and unmarried) may also qualify.
In some cases, dependent children of dependent children may also be included.

3. Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Apply from outside Canada
• Submit the application before entering Canada
• Provide proof of relationship
• Include the primary applicant’s permit approval letter
• Demonstrate financial capability

Key Benefits of Open Study Permits

✔ No LOA Required: You can apply without being admitted to a school first.
✔ No PAL Needed: Avoid delays caused by the study permit cap system.
✔ Study Anywhere in Canada: Choose any province, college, or institution that aligns with your goals.
✔ Stay With Your Family: Live, study, and build your future in Canada alongside your spouse or parent.
✔ Lower Financial Burden: School deposits and LOA requirements are removed at the application stage.
✔ Better Long-Term Opportunities: Studying in Canada can boost eligibility for:

• Permanent residency
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an open study permit?

An open study permit allows the holder to study in Canada without being restricted to a specific school and without needing an LOA at the time of application.

2. Who can apply for this type of permit?

Spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of international students or foreign workers with approved permits.

3. Do I need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)?

No. An LOA is not required to apply.

4. Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?

No. These permits are PAL-exempt, making the application process faster.

5. Can I choose any school in Canada?

Yes, you can enroll in any eligible Canadian school after arriving.

6. Can I apply from inside Canada?

No. Applications must be submitted from outside Canada.

7. How long does the process take?

Processing times vary by country but generally follow standard study permit timelines.

8. Does studying on an open study permit lead to PR?

Indirectly, yes. Studying in Canada can strengthen eligibility for PR programs like CEC, PNPs, or family sponsorship.

9. Can I work while holding an open study permit?

Work eligibility depends on the program and school you enroll in. Once admitted to a DLI-approved program, part-time work may be allowed.

10. How can Countrywide Visas help me?

We handle everything-from documentation to school selection-ensuring a smooth, stress-free application process.

How Countrywide Visas Helps You

Eligibility Check

We review your profile and confirm your eligibility for the open study permit.

End-to-End Application Assistance

Our team prepares:

• Relationship proof
• Approval letter documentation
• Financial evidence
• Supporting affidavits

Guidance on Choosing Schools

Selecting a recognized institution is important for your future-our experts guide you through the options.

Perfect Documentation

We ensure your documents are complete, accurate, and ready for IRCC review.

Visa & Immigration Support

From submitting the application to receiving the permit, we manage the entire process.

📞 Contact Us - Countrywide Visas

Ready to explore Canada’s new open study permit pathway?
Reach out today:

📱 Phone / WhatsApp: +91-8130078449
📧 Email: info@countrywidevisas.com
🌐 Website: www.countrywidevisas.com

Our experts are ready to help you and your family take the next step toward studying and settling in Canada.