Study & work
Spousal open work permits
Open work permits for spouses and partners of certain students, workers and sponsored applicants.
Overview
Spouses and common-law partners may be able to get an open work permit that lets them work for almost any employer in Canada. Eligibility was narrowed in 2025 and now depends closely on what the principal applicant is studying or doing in Canada.
Key requirements at a glance
- Spouses of students: generally only if the student is in a master's program of 16 months or longer, a doctoral program, or certain professional degree programs
- Spouses of workers: depends on the worker's occupation (for example TEER 0 or 1, or selected TEER 2 and 3 jobs) and other conditions
- Inland spousal sponsorship: the sponsored spouse may be eligible for an open work permit while the PR application is processed
How we can help
- Confirm which open work permit category, if any, applies
- Sequence the application with the principal's study or work permit
- Prepare relationship evidence and the application
Official information
This overview is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change, and your situation may raise issues not covered here.
Not sure where you fit?
Start with a one-hour consultation with a licensed RCIC and leave with a clear, written plan.