Spousal Work Permit Canada: Everything You Need to Know

A Spousal Work Permit in Canada allows the spouse or common-law partner of a temporary foreign worker or international student to legally work in Canada. If your spouse is studying or working in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for this permit and gain the freedom to work for any employer in Canada without needing a job offer.

What is a Spousal Work Permit?

A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is a type of work permit that enables spouses or common-law partners of eligible foreign nationals to work in Canada. This permit is not employer-specific, meaning you can work for any employer in any industry.

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Who Can Apply for a Spousal Work Permit in Canada?

You may be eligible for a spousal work permit if:

Your spouse or common-law partner is an international student enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) and holds a valid study permit.
Your spouse is a temporary foreign worker in Canada and holds a valid work permit.
You are a spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident applying for spousal sponsorship.
Your spouse is working in an occupation classified under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

If you meet these criteria, you can apply for an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada.

Processing Time for a Spousal Work Permit in Canada

The processing time for a spousal work permit in Canada varies depending on the type of application and location of submission:

Inside Canada Applications: 3 to 4 months (on average)
Outside Canada Applications: 4 to 6 months
Spousal Sponsorship Applications: 6 to 12 months (processed alongside the PR application)

Factors that affect processing time include:

The accuracy of your application
The volume of applications received by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Whether additional documents or medical exams are required

To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and submitted with all required documents.

How to Apply for a Spousal Work Permit in Canada

Step-by-Step Process

Check Your Eligibility: Ensure your spouse meets the requirements for you to apply for a spousal open work permit.

2. Gather Required Documents:

- Valid passport
- Your spouse’s valid study permit/work permit
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship
- Proof of funds to support yourself in Canada
- Medical exam (if required)

3. Apply Online: Submit your application through the IRCC website.

4. Pay the Fees:

- Work Permit Fee: CAD 155
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD 100

Wait for Processing: Monitor your application status through your IRCC account.

Benefits of a Spousal Work Permit in Canada

Applying for a spousal open work permit provides several advantages:

Work for Any Employer: No job offer is required.
Gain Canadian Work Experience: Improve your chances of securing permanent residency (PR).
No LMIA Needed: You don’t need an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
Stay with Your Spouse: Live and work in Canada while your spouse studies or works.
Pathway to PR: A spousal work permit can be a stepping stone to permanent residency.

Why Choose GreenHill Immigration?

At GreenHill Immigration, we specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the Canadian immigration process. Our expert team ensures your spousal work permit application is complete, reducing the risk of delays and refusals.

Why Work with Us?

✔ Experienced Consultants: We stay updated with the latest immigration policies.
✔ Fast & Hassle-Free Process: We handle paperwork and ensure a smooth submission.
✔ Personalized Guidance: Every application is tailored to your specific situation.
✔ High Success Rate: We’ve helped countless applicants successfully get their permits.