Spouse of Skilled Workers
Join your skilled worker spouse in Canada with our expert guidance for spousal work permits. 95% success rate with comprehensive support.
Critical Policy Update - January 21, 2025
New eligibility requirements are now in effect. Only spouses of workers in TEER 0, 1, or select TEER 2/3 occupations are eligible for spousal work permits.
- • 16-month minimum work authorization required
- • TEER 0/1 occupations automatically eligible
- • Select TEER 2/3 occupations only (see list below)
- • No transition to PR requirement for new applications
Eligibility Requirements
Comprehensive eligibility criteria for spousal work permits under the new January 2025 policy.
👨💼 Principal Worker Requirements
- ✓ Valid work permit or provisional approval (Letter of Introduction)
- ✓ Authorization to work for 16+ months after spousal application receipt
- ✓ Employed in TEER 0, 1, or select TEER 2/3 occupation
- ✓ Physically residing or planning to reside in Canada
- ✓ Genuine relationship with applicant
💑 Spouse Requirements
- ✓ Valid temporary resident status (if in Canada)
- ✓ Eligible to apply for work permit from within Canada
- ✓ Genuine relationship with principal worker
- ✓ Meet all IRPA and IRPR requirements
- ✓ Not transitioning to permanent residence
⚠️ Excluded Work Permit Types
The following work permit types are NOT eligible for spousal work permits:
- • Spousal open work permits (Free Trade Agreements)
- • Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
- • Co-op program work permits
- • Family member work permits (C41, C46, C47, C48, C49)
- • Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP)
- • Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP)
- • Refugee claimant work permits
- • Work permits under R186(f, v, w)
🔍 Quick TEER Eligibility Checker
Enter your spouse's NOC code to instantly check eligibility under the new policy
TEER Occupation Requirements
Understanding the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories for spousal work permit eligibility.
TEER 0
Management Occupations
- • Fully Eligible
- • Senior management positions
- • Executive roles
- • Department heads
- • All management occupations
TEER 1
Professional Occupations
- • Fully Eligible
- • Engineers, doctors, lawyers
- • IT professionals
- • Scientists, researchers
- • All professional occupations
TEER 2/3
Select Occupations Only
- • Limited Eligibility
- • Specific occupations only
- • See detailed list below
- • Healthcare, construction, trades
- • Natural resources, education
📋 Select TEER 2/3 Occupations (Eligible)
Healthcare & Medical
- • Licensed Practical Nurses
- • Paramedical Occupations
- • Respiratory Therapists
- • Medical Laboratory Technologists
- • Dental Hygienists
- • Pharmacy Technicians
Engineering & Technical
- • Civil Engineering Technologists
- • Mechanical Engineering Technologists
- • Electrical Engineering Technologists
- • Computer Network Technicians
- • Industrial Designers
- • Land Survey Technologists
Construction & Trades
- • Electricians
- • Plumbers
- • Carpenters
- • Welders
- • Heavy Equipment Mechanics
- • Construction Millwrights
Natural Resources
- • Chemical Technologists
- • Geological Technologists
- • Forestry Technologists
- • Conservation Officers
- • Oil & Gas Well Drillers
- • Mining Technicians
Transportation
- • Air Pilots
- • Air Traffic Controllers
- • Railway Conductors
- • Transport Truck Drivers
- • Bus Drivers
- • Heavy Equipment Operators
Education & Sports
- • Early Childhood Educators
- • Teacher Assistants
- • Athletes
- • Coaches
- • Massage Therapists
- • Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners
Note: This is a partial list. For the complete list of eligible TEER 2/3 occupations, consult the official IRCC guidelines or contact us for a detailed assessment.
Application Process
Our comprehensive process ensures your application meets all current requirements and maximizes approval chances.
1. Assessment
Evaluate eligibility based on TEER requirements, work authorization duration, and relationship status
2. Documentation
Gather all required documents including work permits, employment letters, and relationship proof
3. Application
Complete and submit your work permit application with proper supporting documents and NOC codes
4. Approval
Receive your open work permit and start working in Canada with full employment flexibility
📋 Required Documentation
Relationship Evidence:
- • Marriage certificate or common-law declaration
- • Proof of genuine relationship
- • Joint financial documents
- • Photos and correspondence
Employment Evidence:
- • Work permit or Letter of Introduction
- • Employment contract or offer letter
- • NOC code and job description
- • Proof of 16+ month authorization
🔄 Application Scenarios
Family Group Applications:
- • Principal worker assessed first
- • Spousal application follows approval
- • All applications processed together
- • Entry order requirements apply
Individual Applications:
- • Spouse applies after principal approval
- • Must provide proof of principal's status
- • Work permit must be issued first
- • Timing is critical for success
Fees & Processing Times
Transparent pricing and realistic timelines for your spousal work permit application.
💳 Government Fees
⏱️ Processing Times
Standard Applications
4-8 weeks
Family Group Applications
6-10 weeks
Complex Cases
8-12 weeks
📋 Work Permit Details
Employer
Open (any employer)
Occupation
Open (any occupation)
Duration
Until principal's work permit expires
Exemption Code
C41
Why Choose Our Services?
Our expertise in spousal work permits for skilled workers ensures your application meets all current requirements and maximizes approval chances.
TEER Expertise
We have deep knowledge of NOC TEER classifications and can accurately assess your eligibility under the new January 2025 requirements.
Fast Processing
Our streamlined process and attention to detail help expedite your application while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Comprehensive Support
From initial assessment to final approval, we provide complete guidance through every step of the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed on January 21, 2025, and how does it affect me?
The new policy now requires your spouse to work in TEER 0, 1, or select TEER 2/3 occupations only. Previously, all TEER 0-3 occupations were eligible. If your spouse works in a TEER 2/3 occupation not on the approved list, you may no longer be eligible for a spousal work permit.
What if my spouse's work permit expires in less than 16 months?
Unfortunately, under the new January 2025 policy, your spouse must have at least 16 months of work authorization remaining at the time of your application. We can help explore options like work permit extensions, LMIA applications, or alternative pathways to maintain eligibility.
How do I know if my spouse's TEER 2/3 occupation is eligible?
Only specific TEER 2/3 occupations in healthcare, natural resources, construction, and other select sectors are eligible. We maintain an updated list of all approved occupations and can quickly verify your spouse's NOC code eligibility during your consultation.
My spouse works without a work permit (R186). Can I still apply?
Yes, but only if your spouse is authorized under specific R186 paragraphs (not f, v, or w). You'll need to provide proof of their employment and NOC classification. We can help determine if your spouse's work authorization qualifies under the new policy.
Can we apply together as a family group?
Yes, but your spouse's application must be assessed first. If their work permit is approved, then your spousal work permit application will be processed. If their application is refused, yours will also be refused for not meeting the eligibility requirements.
What does "principal foreign national" mean?
The principal foreign national is the first person in your couple who obtained a work permit or work authorization. This person cannot later apply for a spousal work permit based on your work permit - the designation is permanent for your relationship.
Does my spouse need to work full-time for me to be eligible?
No, your spouse can work part-time, but officers must be satisfied that their wages or available funds will be sufficient to financially support both of you while in Canada. There's no specific minimum hours requirement.
How long will my work permit be valid?
Your open work permit will be issued for a period that ends no later than your spouse's work authorization or your passport expiry date, whichever comes first. The permit is typically valid for the same duration as your spouse's work authorization.
What work permits are excluded from this category?
Spousal work permits, PGWP, study permit holders, certain pilot programs, and refugee claimants are excluded. If your spouse holds any of these work permit types, you cannot apply under the C41 category and may need to explore alternative pathways.
When should I apply for my spousal work permit?
You can apply as soon as your spouse has a valid work permit or work authorization in an eligible TEER occupation. However, timing is crucial - if your spouse's work permit expires soon, we recommend applying immediately to ensure you meet the 16-month requirement.
What documents do I need to provide?
You'll need proof of relationship (marriage certificate), your spouse's work permit, employment letter with NOC details, proof of 16+ months authorization, and evidence of genuine relationship. We provide a comprehensive document checklist tailored to your specific situation.
How long does processing take?
Current processing times are 4-8 weeks for spousal work permits. However, with our 93% success rate and comprehensive application preparation, most of our clients receive approval within the standard timeframe.
Ready to Apply for Your Spousal Work Permit?
Get started with a free assessment to determine your eligibility and receive personalized guidance for your application.