When to apply
You should apply at the same time you apply for your study permit before you come to Canada.
You can also apply when you are settled in Canada, but we do not advise this because it will be more costly, take more time, and will prevent your child from qualifying for MSI provincial health insurance even though you may be eligible.
Since you can only apply for a temporary resident visa from within Canada if you have a study or work permit, having a study permit for your child will allow you to easily extend their temporary resident visa instead of travelling back to your home country and applying for the visa from there.
If you have children who will be attending pre-school or primary/secondary school, they are not required to have a study permit. However, study permits (rather than visitor records) can make the immigration process run more smoothly, especially if your child enters Canada without a parent.
Applying from outside Canada
If you are a new user, you need to register for an through GCKey or Sign-in Partner.
You will be prompted to enter a personal checklist code. If you do not already have a code, click on "Determine your eligibility." Answer all the questions that follow.
Click on “Apply Online” and enter your personal checklist code.
1. Complete the for yourself and your dependent(s). Validate and save the forms as unsigned copies.
2. Gather the following supporting documents for you and your dependent(s):
Digital photo (420x540 pixels)
Passport (only pages with stamps, visas, photos)
Letter of acceptance to ĢAV
Letter of acceptance to a primary or secondary school in Canada
Proof of medical examination
(you must complete this to represent your child)
Proof of financial support
Once you have all the documents ready, save them electronically then upload the IMM 1249 form and supporting documents.
Pay the $150 fee online with a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). Do not forget to print a receipt.
Save or print your confirmation of successful transmission for your records.
Applying from within Canada
If you are a new user, you need to register for an through GCKey or Sign-in Partner. Your client ID from your study permit is required to complete the registration. If your child is 16 or younger they must use your account.
You will be prompted to enter a personal checklist code. If you do not already have a code, click on "Determine your eligibility." Answer all the questions that follow.
Click on “Apply Online” and enter your personal checklist code.
1. Complete the . Validate and save the forms as unsigned copies.
2. Gather the following supporting documents for you and your dependent(s):
Digital photo (420x540 pixels)
Passport (only pages with stamps, visas, photos)
Letter of acceptance to a primary or secondary school in Canada
Family member proof of status (study permit of the parent)
Proof of means of financial support
(you must complete this to represent your child)
Once you have all the documents ready, save them electronically then upload the IMM 1249 form and supporting documents.
Pay the $150 fee online with a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). Do not forget to print a receipt.
Save or print your confirmation of successful transmission for your records.