A parent applying for a study permit with a spousal open work permit (SOWP) asked whether their 8-year-old child should apply as a visitor or get their own study permit.
What the group advised:- Either a visitor visa or a study permit can work for a child, and the decision on which school to enroll in can be made once you're already in Canada.
- Children above age 5 need a study permit to be formally admitted to a Canadian school. Since the child in this case is 8, a study permit is the relevant route if they'll be enrolled in school.
- You don't need a confirmed school admission to apply for the child's study permit — the application itself doesn't require it upfront, according to the group's experience.
The practical takeaway: for a school-age child (over 5) accompanying parents on a study permit/SOWP, apply for a study permit for the child, and you can finalize the specific school after arriving in Canada.