Unusual Circumstance

[andikeep2580]

I have a a couple of friends who have just arrived in Canada on a 1-year BUNAC program. They have been living together in England for some 8 years and married 4 weeks prior to them coming to Canada. Obviously they are enjoying being here already and are keen to stay, but I had a thought - What would happen if she got pregnant? Would the baby be Canadian if born here and what would be the situation for them in terms of extending their stay?

Any advice would be great.

Thanks.

 

[YorkFactory]

The child would be Canadian if born in Canada, but may also receive the citizenship(s) of the parents, depending on the laws of those other countries.

They could be sponsored for permanent residence once the child turns 18, but I don't believe that having a Canadian child gives you any special status in Canada.

 

[andikeep2580]

Thanks

Anybody else have any ideas also?

Ta

 

[Leon]

The baby will be a Canadian citizen but that will not get them any status in Canada. They will still have to qualify for their own immigration.

Cost is another issue. I believe that people on BUNAC visas are required to have their own insurance and are not covered by health care so in that sense, having a baby is unlikely to be covered by their insurance and could cost them $5,000 to 10,000 in health care fees.

If they want to stay, they should try to use their BUNAC time to find a good employer so they will have a chance to change to a regular work permit and be nominated under a PNP. If one of them manages to do this, the other can apply for an open spouse work permit.