If your spouse is presently employed or enrolled in studies in Canada, or if you’ve submitted a permanent residence sponsorship application with your spouse or partner in Canada, you might qualify for an open work permit.
A spousal open work permit allows the spouse of certain temporary Canadian permit holders to work anywhere in Canada without significant restrictions.
You must be in a genuine relationship with a qualifying Canadian principal applicant or permanent resident and must not be criminally or medically inadmissible to Canada.
Those whose spouses are studying or working in Canada, or individuals who have applied for permanent residence sponsorship from within Canada, may be eligible.
From April 30, 2024, the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian permanent resident or citizen may be eligible for an open work permit if they have a valid study permit and are enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program, an eligible pilot program, or a specified professional degree.
Yes, you can apply for a spousal open work permit if you have applied for permanent residency sponsorship from within Canada. The application process varies based on the status of your permanent residency application.
Yes, dependent children can apply for a visitor record to accompany you.
Yes, you can work anywhere in Canada for any employer, subject to standard conditions such as not working for an employer involved in or at risk of sexual exploitation of workers and leaving Canada at the end of your authorized stay, as well as any conditions specified on your work permit.
There is no required waiting period; you can apply immediately after marriage.
The application process varies. Contact us to determine the best procedure for your situation.
Opting for our legal services for your spouse’s open work permit application ensures you receive customized guidance based on your specific situation. Our skilled immigration lawyers evaluate your case to suggest the most suitable work permit category, guaranteeing a thorough and well-prepared application. We provide expert advice and ongoing support throughout the process, helping you overcome any obstacles and enhancing your chances of success. Our tailored approach delivers strategic assistance to achieve your unique needs and objectives.
Processing times vary depending on your spouse’s permit type.
It is valid for the duration of your spouse’s permit. If your spouse’s passport expires soon, your permit will not exceed that validity.
It cannot be extended. If it expires, you will need to reapply based on your spouse’s status.
If your relationship ends after receiving the permit, it remains valid. However, if the separation occurs while your application is still in process, notify IRCC as it may affect your eligibility.
Yes, you will be on maintained status and can remain in Canada under the same conditions while waiting for your SOWP.
Yes, you will be on maintained status and can remain in Canada under the same conditions while waiting for your SOWP.
We offer high-quality Canadian immigration services, provided by top immigration lawyers specializing in spousal open work permits in Canada. With a meticulous, detail-driven approach, we ensure that every case is handled with precision, leaving nothing to chance. This commitment to excellence is the key to our success and our proven track record of successful outcomes for clients. Our services are accessible online from anywhere, at competitive rates, with no hidden fees. We proudly serve clients across Canada and around the world, including in:
To apply for a spousal open work permit, you are required to pay a total processing fee of $340. This fee comprises $155 for application processing, $100 for the open work permit holder fee, and $85 for biometrics.
A spousal open work permit is valid only for the duration of the principal applicant’s permit. Additionally, if the principal applicant’s passport is approaching expiration, the permit will not extend beyond the passport’s validity.
Typically, processing a spousal open work permit application takes between 1 and 4 months. If the spouse is already in Canada, they must wait until they receive the open work permit before they are permitted to work.
Yes, you can leave and re-enter Canada if your visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) remains valid.