Is it possible for a parent to accompany a student?

[teegroce]

I have a 19 year old son, who is planning to study in Canada at University level. We are British citizens, and he has already completed high school in Canada. Could I as his mother accompany him on his return to studies for a period of time (1yr)? If so, would I be able to apply for a work permit, if not what type of visa could I apply for? I would really appreciate a definite answer to this question. Thanks so much!

Thanks,
T

 

[scylla]

You can come to Canada as a visitor. When you arrive, you will likely be granted a visit of six months. When you are close to the end of your visit, you can apply to extend your visit for another six months (note there is no guarantee this extension will be approved). You are not allowed to work in Canada as a visitor.

If you wish to work in Canada, you will need to apply for a work permit. To qualify to apply for a work permit, you will first have to find an employer who is willing to offer you a job. That employer will then need to obtain an approved LMO (labour market opinion). To be approved for the LMO, the employer will have to advertise the job and prove they were unable to find a Canadian to hire for the role. Unfortunately many/most employers are unwilling to go through the LMO process due to the amount of paperwork and waiting it takes - and because there's no guarantee of an approval. If you are able to obtain both a job off and approved LMO, you can then apply for a work permit.

Hope this helps.

 

[teegroce]

Hi

Thanks for your response. You said that I would likely to get 6 months stay, however because I am a British passport holder I get 6 months stay anyway, how does this differ? Also, what about a TRV would I be eligible for one of those?

Thanks!

 

[jay031]

Hi

Thanks for your response. You said that I would likely to get 6 months stay, however because I am a British passport holder I get 6 months stay anyway, how does this differ? Also, what about a TRV would I be eligible for one of those?

Thanks!

You get a stay of 6 months without a TRV, but require a permit to work/study in Canada.

 

[scylla]

Hi

Thanks for your response. You said that I would likely to get 6 months stay, however because I am a British passport holder I get 6 months stay anyway, how does this differ? Also, what about a TRV would I be eligible for one of those?

Thanks!

It's a common misconception that you will be given a six month visit by default. This isn't true. Yes - you're from a visa exempt country. What this means in reality is that you can come here without a visa (TRV) and you will LIKELY be granted a six month visit by immigration. However there is no guarantee that you will be given a six month visit (the six months visit is a privilege - not a right). What can actually happen is any of the following: granted six month visit, granted a visit shorter than six months, refused entry entirely. Which of these happens is up to the immigration officer you encounter when you enter the country. If there is any suspicion you are going to try to work without authorization or if you look like you're coming for longer than a visit (e.g. have plans to live in Canada long term), you could be granted a shorter visit or refused entry entirely. Sure - you can apply for a TRV. But doing so makes no sense. It will give you no advantage at the border (i.e. you could still be refused entry) and it will cost you money to get one. I think it makes more sense to enter on just your passport.

 

[teegroce]

Ok thanks, you are right it is something I have always taken for granted. Thanks for the information, definitely food for thought.

Thanks so much!
T