Alps Immigration Services

Spousal Open Work Permit

Understanding the Spouse Open Work Permit

A spouse open work permit is a special permission that allows the spouses of certain temporary Canadian permit holders to work anywhere in Canada without many restrictions.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Spousal Work Permit and Visa?

You must satisfy certain minimal requirements in order to be qualified for a spousal open work permit:

Eligibility Requirements:

Responsive Table
Category Principal Applicant’s Occupational Skill Level Requirement Principal Applicant’s Minimum Work Permit Length
Spouses or common-law partners of Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) work permit holders 0, A, or B 6 months
Spouses or common-law partners of Quebec selection certificate (CSQ) holders Any occupational skill level 6 months
Spouses or common-law partners of provincial nominees Any occupational skill level 6 months
Spouses or common-law partners of bridging open work permit (BOWP) holders Varies depending on program principal applicant applies under 6 months
Spouses or common-law partners of open work permit holders other than BOWP (incl. PGWP, IEC) 0, A, or B Not applicable
Spouses or common-law partners of study permit holders Not applicable Not applicable
In Canada spousal/common-law sponsorship applicants Not applicable Not applicable

Remember that specific requirements may vary based on the category of the Spousal Open Work Permit you are applying for.