Spousal Work Permit

Spouses and common law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are being sponsored for permanent residence may obtain an open work permit if their applications have be verified as complete, they have valid status in Canada, and they reside with their sponsor. An application for a spousal open work permit may be made at the same time as the sponsorship application. 

Spouses and common law partners of some temporary residents are also be eligible for open work permits, including: 

• Temporary foreign workers holding a valid work permit in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification Skill Level 0, A, or B)
• International Students in specific programs or pilot projects – Please check with us to determine whether you or your spouse/partner would qualify under the current rules

The Canadian government has made several changes to the temporary foreign worker and international student programs so it is important to obtain proper up-to-date advice from our team to determine eligibility at the time of application.