Spousal Open Work Permit

Overview

An open work permit is not automatic for every spouse of a Canadian permit holder. Student-family, worker-family and sponsored-spouse categories have different eligibility tests. Identify the correct category, principal applicant’s status and relationship evidence before filing. A pending application alone does not generally authorize a new worker to begin employment.

Who may qualify

• A qualifying spousal or common-law relationship
• Principal applicant meets the rules of the selected category
• Valid status and sufficient remaining authorization where required
• Applicant meets admissibility and application-location requirements

The process

1. 1Identify student, worker or sponsorship-related category
2. 2Confirm principal applicant program, occupation and status
3. 3Prepare relationship and eligibility evidence
4. 4Submit the correct permit application and fees
5. 5Wait until legally authorized before beginning work

Timeline: Check the current IRCC work-permit estimate for your application location.

Frequently asked questions