Does a spouse get an open work permit in Canada?

Eligibility is not automatic. As of January 21, 2025, a spouse or common-law partner must qualify under one of three strict regulatory pathways to get a spouse open work permit.

1. Spouses of International Students

Under current regulations, an open work permit for spouse of international student in canada is restricted to families of students in advanced or professional degree programs.

• Eligible Programs: Master’s degrees (16 months+), Doctoral (PhD) programs, or specific University Professional Degrees (e.g., MD, JD, BEd, BEng, BScN).
• Extension Restriction: To extend an SOWP, the student must have a valid study permit, be enrolled full-time, and not be in their final academic term.

2. Spouses of Foreign Workers (including PGWP Holders)

The temporary foreign worker program in canada has undergone significant shifts. Eligibility for a spouse work permit now depends on the specific job of the foreign worker and their timeline for becoming a permanent resident.

• High-Skilled (Non-PR Path): The temporary foreign worker must hold a TEER 0 or 1 role (or a select TEER 2/3 shortage-sector role) and have at least 16 months of validity remaining on your work permit at the time of spousal open work permit application.
• PR-Pathway Workers: If the worker is already in a designated PR stream (e.g., Provincial Nominee or Bridging OWP), they only require 6 months of permit validity, and the TEER-specific job restrictions generally do not apply.

For TEER rules and 2025 timing requirements, see our FAQ “Which TEER is eligible for a spouse open work permit?”

3. Spouses of Canadian Citizens or PRs (Inland Sponsorship)

If you are being sponsored for permanent residence while residing in Canada, you may apply for an open work permit.

• Primary Requirement: You must have received your Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) for the PR application and be living in Canada with your sponsor.
• The Urgent Exception: If your current status expires in 14 days or less, you may apply for the OWP without an AOR, provided the PR application has already been submitted.

Need assistance with a spouse visa Canada work permit and want to move through the process smoothly and confidently, you can book a consultation with our Canadian immigration experts. Also you can review our Immigration Consultant Prices to find the package that fits your needs.

If you need a full overview on spouse visa Canada requirements, you can visit our dedicated webpage for a complete breakdown of the family reunification process.