Spouse Open Work Permit

Spouses and common-law partners of students studying in Canada on a valid study permit can apply for an open work permit. Open work permit will allow them to work in Canada without any LMIA and job offer from the employer i.e this permit is not employer restricted. Spouses or common-law partners can work anywhere on a full-time basis. This permit is valid for the same duration as a study permit.

When can your spouse or common-law partner apply for open work permit?

• After you arrive in Canada or
• at the same time as applying for your initial study permit outside of Canada

Your minor child can also study in Canada without a study permit at a pre-school, primary or secondary level.

This Open work permit pilot Applies to applicants who are making application for spousal sponsorship inside Canada. Inland sponsorship is for couples who are already in Canada living together. Applicant must be in Canada on either of legal status i.e visitor, study permit or work permit.

Applicants applying under the open work permit can submit the work permit application at the same time as their application for permanent residence, to be eligible to apply for the open work permit. Applicant need to submit PR application under the Spouse Common-Law Partner Class; have a Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse or common-law partner who has submitted a sponsorship application on their behalf; live at the same address as their sponsor; and have a valid temporary resident status in Canada, or an approved application for restoration status with authorization to work.