When applying for a study permit with a spouse who plans to join on a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP), a few practical questions come up around sequencing and required justification.
What group members advised:- You can apply for your study permit and your spouse's SOWP either together or apply the study permit first, then the SOWP afterward. Both sequences are used by applicants; there isn't one mandatory order.
- Your program and university choice need a genuine, well-researched justification. Officers want to see how the specific program helps your career goals and why you chose to study it in Canada specifically — a generic answer isn't enough.
- Attach solid financial documentation alongside your program research to support the overall application.
Note: whether an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required depends on the specific program's admission requirements at the institution you're applying to — check directly with the school, since it isn't automatically required for every study permit application.