The rules on open work permits for spouses of foreign workers changed significantly on January 21, 2025. A lot of older information online is no longer accurate.
Workers not on a pathway to permanent residence
According to IRCC, a spouse or common-law partner only qualifies for an open work permit (code C41) if the principal worker:
- holds a valid work permit or has been provisionally approved (letter of introduction issued);
- works or will work in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation, or a listed TEER 2 or 3 occupation (including many in natural and applied sciences, construction, health, natural resources, education...);
- has a permit valid for at least 16 months after IRCC receives the spouse's application;
- lives or will live in Canada while working;
- is in a genuine relationship.
For workers in low-wage, lower-skilled jobs who are not on a PR pathway, spouses can no longer get an open work permit under this measure (except some extensions).
Dependent children
Since January 21, 2025, dependent children of workers not on a PR pathway can no longer get an open work permit under this measure.
Workers on a pathway to permanent residence
Different rules apply if the principal worker has applied for permanent residence or is in certain programs (such as the AIP, PNP, RCIP or FCIP). For example, under the FCIP the spouse can apply for an open work permit at the same time as the worker's 2-year permit, but may only work in the same community.
Fees
Work permit CAD 155 plus the CAD 100 open work permit holder fee.
If your spouse doesn't qualify
According to IRCC, they may apply for another type of work permit (for example with their own job offer), or, if they don't plan to work, a visitor visa or a study permit.
Note The list of eligible TEER 2 and 3 occupations is in Annex A of IRCC's C41 instructions. Check the exact NOC code before planning for the whole family.
Children's schooling
Parents visiting