Spousal Work Permit Open Work Permit
Work anywhere in Canada with your spouse or common-law partner.
No LMIA required - Open work permit for maximum flexibility.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a spousal work permit under the public policy, you must meet all of the following criteria.
Core Requirements
Online Application
Must submit application using IRCC Secure Account (MyAccount) or Authorized Paid Representative Portal.
Physical Presence
Must be physically in Canada with valid temporary resident status or eligible for restoration.
Permanent Residence Application
Must be included in a complete SCLPC class or family class permanent residence application.
Sponsorship Application
Must be the subject of a sponsorship application by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Documentary Evidence
Proof of Relationship
Marriage certificate, Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM 5409), or birth certificate showing both parents' names.
Acknowledgement of Receipt
Copy of AoR letter confirming permanent residence application is in processing (with exceptions for urgent cases).
Valid Status Proof
Valid work permit, visitor record, study permit, temporary resident permit, or passport stamp.
Same Address
Proof of residing at the same residential address in Canada as your sponsor.
⚠️ Important Exclusions
Not Eligible If:
- • Permanent residence application was refused, withdrawn, or returned
- • Application is being processed under spousal public policy (PP subcategory) without valid temporary resident status
- • Submitting work permit application as part of permanent residence application using Permanent Residence Portal
- • Submitting application at port of entry
Special Considerations:
- • Dependent children must provide IMM 0008 form copy
- • No minimum age requirement for work permit issuance
- • Genuine relationship assessment may be conducted
- • Age of dependent child is locked in when IRCC receives the application
Benefits of Spousal Work Permit
Enjoy maximum flexibility and opportunities with an open work permit for spouses.
Open Work Permit
Work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or LMIA.
Fast Processing
Typically processed within 2-4 weeks for online applications from within Canada.
No LMIA Required
Skip the Labour Market Impact Assessment process, saving time and complexity.
Family Unity
Stay together with your spouse while both working and contributing to Canada.
Career Flexibility
Change jobs, employers, or locations without needing to apply for a new work permit.
Pathway to PR
Canadian work experience can help you qualify for permanent residence programs.
Fees & Processing Details
Transparent information about costs and processing requirements for spousal work permits.
Required Fees
Note: Biometric exemptions may apply (e.g., under 14 or 1 in 10 rule).
Processing Information
Work Permit Duration
Maximum 24 months or until passport expires, whichever comes first.
Exemption Code
A74 - Sponsored spouse or partner open work permit.
Work Conditions
Open work permit - work for any employer, any occupation, anywhere in Canada.
Application Method
Must be submitted online through IRCC Secure Account (MyAccount) or Authorized Paid Representative Portal.
Application Process
Our streamlined process ensures your spousal work permit application is handled with expertise and care.
Eligibility Assessment
Verify you meet all requirements: physical presence in Canada, valid status, permanent residence application, and sponsorship.
Document Collection
Gather required documents: relationship proof, AoR letter, status documents, and address verification.
Online Submission
Submit application through IRCC Secure Account (MyAccount) with all required fees and biometrics.
Processing & Approval
IRCC processes application, conducts system checks, and issues open work permit for up to 24 months.
Ready to Apply for Your Spousal Work Permit?
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