Spousal Open Work Permit

Full-time students who have a valid study permit may apply for an open work permit on behalf of their spouses or common-law partners. The spouse or common-law partner of the international student may work if they have an open work permit.

Your spouse or partner can apply without a job offer, and the permit will be valid for the same amount of time as your study permit. This is a great way for your spouse or common-law partner to get involved in the community, obtain useful work experience, and earn additional income. After you arrive in Canada, your spouse or common-law partner can submit an application for a work permit.

It is also feasible to apply for your initial study permit outside of Canada and your spouse's or common-law partner's work permit at the same time. Your minor child(ren) may also pursue studies at the preschool, primary, or secondary levels without a study permit. Children attending preschool, primary, or secondary school with an adult who is in Canada on a work or study permit do not need to have a study permit.

Your spouse or common-law partner may apply for an open work permit if you:

Are a full-time student at a:
- Public post-secondary school, such as a college or university, or CEGEP in Quebec;
- Private college-level school in Quebec; or
- Canadian private school that can legally award degrees under provincial law (for example, a Bachelor, Master's, or Doctorate degree); and
Have a valid study permit.