Spouse Work Permit
Getting a spouse work permit in Canada is an essential process for couples looking to work and stay together in the country. Here’s how you can apply for a spouse work permit in Canada, including the necessary documents and the expected processing time.
A spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student in Canada can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada without first having a job offer. The type of work permit your spouse is eligible for depends on your own status in Canada.
Your spouse can usually apply for an open work permit if you:
- Are an international student at a postsecondary institution
- Hold a work permit for a skilled job (NOC 0, A, or B)*
- Are allowed to work in Canada for at least six months
- Skill Level A (Usually requires a University Degree)
- Skill Level B (Technical Jobs/ skilled trade jobs- usually require a College Diploma)
- Skill Level 0 (management duties)
The spouse can apply for the work permit before or after arriving in Canada. The application can be submitted in two ways:
- Online
- In Paper
As part of the application, include details and documents related to the primary applicant’s status. These may include:
- Copy of the study permit
- Work permit
- Employment details
- Proof of student enrollment (at a Canadian institution)
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The following documents are needed to complete the application process:
- Completed Application Forms
- Application for work permit made outside of Canada [IMM1295]
- (if applying from outside Canada), and Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada [IMM5710] (if already in Canada).
- Identity Documents
- Passports, marriage certificates, and birth certificates for any dependents.
- Proof of Relationship
- Marriage certificate or evidence of common-law status.
- Proof of the Primary Applicant’s Status
- Copy of the study permit or work permit of the spouse in Canada.
- Proof of Financial Support
- Evidence that the primary applicant can support the family financially during the stay.
- Letter from Employer or Employment Offer (optional)
- Though not necessary, if the spouse already has a job offer, including the details can be beneficial.
- Application Fee Payment
- Receipt for the payment of the application fee.
The processing time for a spouse work permit varies depending on several factors including the country of application and the completeness of the application. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Contact us for more details.
Let’s Get Your Spouse A Work Permit
Applying for a spouse work permit in Canada is a straightforward process that can significantly benefit both the applicant and their spouse, allowing them to work and live together in Canada. Accurate and complete documentation is key to a successful application.
Consider consulting with an immigration expert to ensure all requirements are met and to streamline the application process. The opportunity for spouses to work supports the family’s financial stability and helps in quicker integration into Canadian society.
If you have any more questions, let’s connect so you can speed up the process of getting your spouse to Canada!
I’m Rashid Ali, a Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, having a designation of RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) from the College of Citizenship & Immigration Consultants of Canada or CICC (Previously known as ICCRC). CICC is the official regulator of immigration consultants in Canada. I’m also a member of the Canadian Association for Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC).