Open work permits for spouses and partners

Overview

Open work permits for spouses and partners

Since January 21, 2025, spouses and common-law partners of foreign workers qualify under narrower rules. The principal worker’s PR pathway, occupation and remaining authorization determine eligibility.

The principal worker’s category controls

Different rules apply when the principal worker is on a qualifying permanent residence pathway. Outside those pathways, eligibility is generally limited to spouses of workers in TEER 0 or 1 or specified TEER 2 and 3 occupations.

Dependent children no longer receive open permits under the general high-skilled-worker measure, subject to transition and extension rules.

At least 16 months may need to remain

For the general high-skilled measure, the principal worker’s permit or authorization must normally remain valid for at least 16 months after IRCC receives the spouse’s application. A specific 2026 Quebec health-professional exception exists.

A short passport can also limit the spouse’s permit length.

Prove employment and the relationship

Provide the principal worker’s permit or approval, employer evidence establishing the current NOC and dates, and marriage or common-law evidence. A job title without duties may not establish an occupation on the eligible list.

The spouse must satisfy general permit rules and, if in Canada, hold valid status, maintained status or restoration eligibility.

Application timing can differ

Some spouses apply with the principal worker; others must wait for approval or apply separately. PGWP and IEC situations have special sequencing.

Use IRCC’s current questionnaire and do not assume an older family permit establishes a new application under today’s criteria.