Spousal Work Permit
Work in Canada while your spouse or common-law partner works or studies
Start Your ApplicationPurpose
A Spousal Work Permit in Canada allows the spouses or common-law partners of certain temporary or permanent residents to work in Canada while their spouse or partner is working or studying. This enables spouses or common-law partners to work in Canada, thereby supporting the family financially while accompanying a partner who is working or studying in the country.
Eligibility Criteria
Different eligibility requirements apply depending on your spouse's status in Canada
Spouses of Foreign Workers
- Principal foreign worker must be employed in NOC skill levels 0, A, or B
- Foreign worker must have a valid work permit
Spouses of Foreign Students
- Principal applicant must be a full-time student at a public post-secondary institution
- Or attending a private college-level school in Quebec or eligible private post-secondary institution
Sponsored Spouses in Canada
- May apply for an open work permit if applied under the Spousal Sponsorship program within Canada
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for your spousal work permit
Obtain Application Package
Available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Prepare Required Documents
Typically includes proof of relationship (marriage certificate, proof of common-law status), proof of spouse's work or student status, and identity documents.
Complete Application and Pay Fees
Fees for work permit processing must be paid during application submission.
Submit Application
Can be done online via the IRCC website or by mail, depending on the status and location.
Processing
Times may vary, but ensure to apply well ahead of time to avoid delays.
Important Considerations
Open Work Permit
Most spouses or partners will receive an open work permit, allowing them to work for almost any employer in Canada.
Validity
The work permit is generally valid for the same period as the main applicant's study or work permit.
Benefits
- Allows the spouse or common-law partner to gain valuable Canadian work experience
- Supports the financial stability of the family unit during the spouse's study or work placement in Canada
Restrictions
- Must follow all Canadian laws and adhere to the regulations of the work permit
- Open work permits may not permit certain jobs that require additional medical tests or certifications
Special Cases
Spouses of those who have applied for permanent residency under the Express Entry system may also qualify for a spousal work permit while the application is processed.
Spouses or common-law partners of certain temporary residents (such as work permit or study permit holders) or of principal applicants in the permanent residence process may be eligible, depending on the specific program rules in effect.
Yes, an open work permit lets you work for almost any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or LMIA, giving you flexibility to find employment that suits your skills.
It's generally tied to the validity of your spouse's underlying permit or application, so we align the length and renewal timing of your work permit with their status to avoid gaps.
If your spouse's permit is extended, refused, or their PR application concludes, your open work permit eligibility may be affected. We monitor both files together and advise on next steps well before any deadline.