Canada•North AmericaSpouse/Common-Law Partner Open Work Permit
At a Glance
Processing Time
28-56 days
Application Fee
255 CAD
Stay Duration
Duration of principal applicant's work/study permit
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Open work permit for spouses and common-law partners of Express Entry and skilled immigrant applicants. Allows work for any employer while permanent residency application is processed. Limited availability as of January 21, 2025.
An open work permit for spouses and common-law partners allows them to work for any Canadian employer while the principal applicant's permanent residency application is being processed. As of January 21, 2025, only select spouses or common-law partners are eligible under this policy.
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Requirements
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)
From principal applicant's PR application
Marriage certificate or proof of partnership
Legal marriage certificate or common-law partnership evidence
Valid passport
Identification document
Proof of relationship
Photos, correspondence, shared expenses showing relationship
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Advantages
- Allows spouse to work while waiting for PR
- Open work permit - can work for any employer
- Can earn income and gain Canadian work experience
- Simplifies family relocation process
Considerations
- Limited availability as of January 21, 2025
- Must have PR application in process
- Not all spouses are eligible
- Dependent children no longer covered
- Tied to principal applicant's status
Application Process
Principal applies for PR
Primary applicant must have submitted PR application
Receive Acknowledgement of Receipt
Get AOR letter confirming PR application received
Check eligibility
Verify spouse/partner meets current eligibility criteria as of January 21, 2025
Create account
Establish IRCC online account
Complete OWP application
Submit open work permit application
Provide documentation
Upload marriage certificate, AOR, and identification
Pay fee
Pay CAD $155 work permit fee plus CAD $100 open work permit holder fee
Receive decision
Work permit approval in online account
Application Forms
Application for Spouse/Partner Open Work Permit
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