Spousal/Common-law Work Permit
Open work permit for spouses and common-law partners of skilled workers, international students, or permanent residents. Keep your family together while both partners work.
Benefits of Spousal Work Permits
Why spousal work permits are essential for families immigrating to Canada
Family Unity
Keep your family together while both partners can work and contribute to household income in Canada.
Open Work Authorization
Work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Canadian Experience
Both partners can gain Canadian work experience, improving your family's overall immigration prospects.
Financial Independence
Dual income allows better financial stability and ability to support your family's life in Canada.
Spousal Work Permit Eligibility
Different categories of spousal work permit eligibility
Spouse of Skilled Worker
Spouses of foreign workers in skilled occupations (NOC 0, A, or B) may be eligible for open work permits.
Requirements:
- Spouse has valid work permit in skilled occupation
- Proof of marriage or common-law relationship
- Principal applicant's job is NOC 0, A, or B
- Meet standard admissibility requirements
Spouse of International Student
Spouses of international students in eligible programs may qualify for open work permits under certain conditions.
Requirements:
- Student spouse in eligible program (degree, diploma, certificate)
- Student attending public institution or eligible private institution
- Proof of genuine relationship
- Student maintains full-time status
Spouse of Permanent Resident
Spouses of permanent residents may be eligible for open work permits while their sponsorship application is being processed.
Requirements:
- Spouse is Canadian permanent resident
- Sponsorship application submitted and acknowledged
- Currently in Canada with valid status
- No criminal inadmissibility
Proving Your Relationship
Essential documentation to demonstrate genuine spousal/common-law relationship
Marriage Certificate
Official marriage certificate from recognized authority
Common-law Evidence
Proof of 1+ year cohabitation (lease, bills, bank statements)
Joint Financial Records
Joint bank accounts, credit cards, insurance policies
Communication Records
Photos, messages, call logs showing ongoing relationship
Relationship Assessment
IRCC carefully assesses the genuineness of spousal relationships. Provide comprehensive evidence spanning the entire relationship duration. Recent marriages or relationships may face additional scrutiny and require more extensive documentation.
Explore Other Work Permit Types
Compare different work permit options in Canada
Ready to Apply for a Spousal Work Permit?
Get expert guidance on spousal work permit eligibility, relationship documentation, and application strategies for family unity.