Spousal Open Work Permit

Spousal Open Work Permit

Are a spouse or common law partner of someone studying or working temporarily in Canada and looking to work? A Spousal Open Work Permit may allow this. For details on the spousal open work permit, including who is eligible continue reading below

What is an open spousal work permit?

A spousal open work permit allows your spouse or common law partner to work legally in Canada at any eligible employer.

How can I obtain an open work permit?

The most predominant way to obtain an Open Work Permit is by being the accompanying dependent of someone with status in Canada. This can include a permanent or temporary document.

For example, if your spouse is a Foreign Worker in Canada and is working on a Temporary Work Permit and the permit was issued under NOC, A, B or O then you as a dependent could possible apply for an Open Work Permit.

Can you work or study in Canada if your application is being processed?

Well, like everything else within the immigration process in Canada there is a procedure that will take place. While you are waiting for your Immigration Visa, yes, you will be able to work or study in Canada.

You will be able to do so once the Sponsorship Application has in principle been approved by Immigration Canada. Once it has been approved you will be granted either an Open Work Permit or a Study Permit.

An open work permit is a work permit that does not require any job offer or LMIA. It simply allows an individual to work in Canada during their stay. You may be eligible for an open work permit if:

1. You are already in Canada and you have applied for permanent residence and have been approved either under:

• spousal or common law partner in Canada class
• live-in caregiver program
• federal skilled worker program
• Canadian experience class
• provincial nominee program
• federal skilled trades program
• humanitarian and compassionate grounds
• a family member of someone who’s application for permanent residence has been approved for one of the listed programs

    2. Your spouse is either a skilled worker under the National Occupation Classification or a foreign student.