Work Permits for Spouses of Foreign Workers in Canada

By Visa Jobs CanadaSeptember 24, 2025September 24, 2025Work Visas & LMIA NewsCanadian immigration, foreign workers, spousal work permits, visa sponsorship, work permits

Spouses and common-law partners of foreign workers in Canada have an exciting opportunity to secure an Open Work Permit (OWP). This permit allows them to work for almost any employer in Canada without requiring a job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). However, not everyone is automatically eligible; the circumstances depend on various factors, including the occupation of the foreign worker and their permit type.

Eligibility Requirements

The eligibility rules for spouses and partners can vary significantly based on the skill level of the foreign worker and the type of work permit they hold. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies:

Permanent Residency (PR) Applicants: If a foreign worker has applied for permanent residency through streams like the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or the Agri-Food Pilot, their spouse can apply for an OWP, provided the foreign worker’s permit is valid for at least six months.
Low-Skilled Workers (TEER 4 and 5): Spouses may be eligible if the worker is on a pathway to PR and has valid work authorization for a minimum of six months. However, there are exemptions, including specific programs like the Francophone and Rural Community Immigration Pilots, which have different guidelines.
High-Skilled Workers (TEER 0 and 1): Here, spouses can apply if the worker’s permit is valid for at least 16 months at the application time.
Skilled Workers (TEER 2 and 3): For these workers, spouses are eligible if they hold a permit valid for at least 16 months and are employed in one of the listed eligible occupations.
Free Trade Agreements: The specific Free Trade Agreement (FTA)—like CPTPP or the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement—will also affect a spouse’s eligibility.

Who Does Not Qualify

While the OWP offers many possibilities, some foreign workers cannot extend these benefits to their spouses:

Workers with pending refugee claims or removal orders.
International students working on co-op permits or off-campus without a work permit.
Workers who already possess a spousal OWP.

General Requirements for Spouses

In addition to the worker’s eligibility, spouses must meet some general requirements to qualify for an OWP:

Hold valid temporary resident status.
Demonstrate proof of funds to support themselves and their family.
Have no criminal record and be prepared to provide a police certificate if asked.
Be in good health, which may require undergoing medical testing.
Leave Canada when their permit expires.

For recognition, spouses must be legally married, while common-law partners need to prove at least 12 months of living together in a genuine relationship.

If you’re exploring job opportunities in Canada, our website here at VisaJobsCanada.com focuses specifically on jobs that offer visa sponsorship to international applicants. This makes it easier for you to find potential employers who can support your pathway to living and working in Canada.

Next Steps

If you’re a spouse considering an OWP, it’s essential to gather the necessary documentation and review the specific requirements based on your partner’s work status. Having a clear understanding of these criteria will make the process smoother.

Feel free to dive deeper into your research. And remember, the Canadian job market is welcoming, especially to individuals ready to contribute their skills and talents.