If it was for PR, that's fine as long as they weren't the primary applicant (the primary applicant MUST land, otherwise none of the other applicants may land.) When their PR visa expires, they will be required to submit a new application if they wish to come to Canada in the future.
If it was for a temporary permit (e.g., a work permit) that's actually fine as well - again, as long as we're not talking about the primary applicant. If a couple file for a work permit (for one person) and an accompanying partner work permit (for the other) and TRVs for both, the applicant with the primary work permit MUST enter the country before (or with) the accompanying partner.