If you are the principal applicant and your spouse is included as a dependent in your permanent residency (PR) application, your spouse can typically only travel to Canada after the PR application is approved and you both receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or a visa, depending on your country of origin.
However, if your spouse holds a valid temporary visa, such as a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit, they may be able to travel to Canada while your PR application is still in process. Keep in mind:
1. Dual Intent: Your spouse must demonstrate that they intend to leave Canada if their temporary status expires, even though they have a pending PR application.
2. No Impact on PR Application: Entering Canada on a temporary visa will not affect the processing of your PR application.
3. Border Officer’s Discretion: The final decision on entry rests with the CBSA officer at the port of entry.
If your spouse does not have a valid temporary visa, they must wait until your PR application is approved.