Who should be primary applicant

[ec15]

My sister (along-with her kid) want to visit me in Canada (from India) for few weeks. My sister's husband isn't planning to join because he wouldn't get leave from work.

Question:
Should my sister apply on her own (sister + kid)?
or sister's husband should also apply (and become primary applicant).

Which one would be a stronger application?

Additional info:
- Sister's husband is well-settled in India with full-time job and a property on their name.
- My sister isn't working.
- This would be first visa for all of them (no previous travel history).
- My sister doesn't maintain active bank account, not much transactions/amount in her bank account.

 

[k.h.p.]

If your sisters husband is not visiting Canada there's no reason he should be applying to visit Canada.

 

[ec15]

The reason for the question is would it make the application stronger if sister's husband applies (as primary applicant)?

(He isn't sure of his travel plans yet, he might travel together as well, but if not, he can use the visa to travel later-on)

My sister isn't working, doesn't have any travel history, and financially dependent on her husband. So would it be somewhat weaker application if she applies on her own?

 

[k.h.p.]

She has to qualify on her own. If he applies with the entire family, there's a good chance of refusal.

If she applies on her own, she has to qualify on her own, but a husband remaining is a reason to leave Canada.

 

[ec15]

Agree. The question remains unanswered though. Which one is a stronger application: if she applies with her husband or without her husband?

Tagging few other seniors as well: @scylla @canuck_in_uk @deadbird @Bryanna @zardoz

Can you please provide your opinion?

 

[k.h.p.]

Neither are stronger because both have significant disadvantages:

- If he applies with her, the whole family is applying which causes a risk of asylum/refugee claims in the eyes of a visa officer.

- If she applies without him, she needs to demonstrate financial capacity and ties to home that would cause her to leave Canada.

Apply without the child. Then, if approved, apply for a visa for the child.