common law partner

[interstudent2010]

Hi,

I'm trying to understand how I can sponsor my partner to accompany me to canada this year. I will be starting a course in university in september. If my partner is from a visa excempt country, is it ok for him to travel over with me and then apply when we're in Canada for the open work permit? Or do we have to apply for this (or put my partner's name down on my application form) at the same time as I apply for my study visa?

Any idea of the processing times for the open work permit if this is possible?

Thank you in advance for any advice.