Family Inclusion

Family Inclusion

All three pathways allow applicants to include their immediate family members in their applications. Under Canadian immigration law, dependents include:

  • A spouse or common-law partner
  • Dependent children under 22 years of age (or over 22 if they have a physical or mental condition that prevents financial independence)

These dependents are eligible for open work permits (spouses) and study permits (children), ensuring integration and access to Canadian public systems.

Parents and grandparents are not eligible as dependents but may later be sponsored under the Family Reunification Program, subject to annual quotas. There is also the Super Visa, which allows extended stays of up to 5 years with renewals.

Applicants should plan strategically: including dependents from the outset minimizes administrative overhead and aligns timelines. Delaying family reunification can result in longer processing and additional evidentiary requirements.