SFU Graduate Student Handbook

Bringing Your Family

Spouses, partners and families of our graduate students are an integral and vital part of the SFU community. Accompanying spouses and common-law partners of full-time international students holding a valid study permit may be eligible to apply for an open work permit. They do not need a job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada in this case. Your school-aged children (ages 5-18) should apply for study permits.

If you wish for your spouse or common-law partner and/or any dependent children to accompany you to Canada, they are advised to apply for any necessary immigration documents at the same time that you apply for your study permit. Depending on their country of citizenship, family members who intend to come to Canada may also require either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Note that if your family member(s) have not provided biometrics (fingerprints and photo) in the past 10 years, they will be required to provide them in their application to come to Canada, unless exempted.

Please contact an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist if you have questions.

Learn about schooling and childcare.

There are several other opportunities for your spouse and children to get settled and make connections. Please visit our website for programs and events.