Can I bring my spouse on a work permit?

Yes — in many situations, you can bring your spouse to Canada on a work permit. The most common pathway is the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), but several temporary resident programs also allow a spouse to work legally in Canada. Choosing the correct category is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

1. Spousal Open Work Permit — Inland Sponsorship
   If you are sponsoring your spouse from inside Canada, they may qualify for an Open Work Permit for Spouses while the PR process is underway. They can apply if:

• A complete inland sponsorship file has been submitted
• An Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) is issued
• They hold a valid temporary status (visitor, worker, student)

This permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada.

2. Spouses of Skilled Workers
   If your spouse is in Canada because you hold a skilled job, they may be eligible to apply for an open work permit only if your work permit meets current IRCC criteria (e.g., you are employed in high-skilled occupations — generally NOC TEER 0 or 1, and certain eligible TEER 2 or 3 occupations — and other conditions under the 2025 policy). Check the latest IRCC guidelines for specific TEER requirements and application conditions.

3. Spouses of International Students
   If you study full-time at a designated institution under a Canadian study permit, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit only if you are enrolled in an eligible program (e.g., a master’s degree of 16 months or longer, a doctoral program, or certain professional degrees) under the updated IRCC rules.

4. Applying From Outside Canada
   A spouse abroad may qualify based on being the partner of a temporary worker or student, via public policies, or — once in Canada — after approval in principle under inland sponsorship.

A work permit helps a spouse gain experience and settle in Canada. Many applicants reviewing work permit options also look at “What are the new rules for spousal work permits in Canada?”, since recent updates may affect eligibility.

You may explore the Spouse Sponsorship Canada program to understand your options. For personalized guidance, our Toronto immigration consultants can help you determine the right pathway. You can also review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees or book a consultation.