Student Spouse Work Permit

Open Work Permit for Spouses or Partners of International Students

Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if:

- You hold a valid study permit.

- You are enrolled full-time in one of the following programs at a designated learning institution:

• A master’s degree program (16 months or longer)
• A doctoral (PhD) program
• A professional degree program, such as DDS, DMD, LLB, JD, MD, OD, PharmD, DVM, BScN, BSN, BNSc, BN, BEd, BEng, BE, BASc
• An eligible program under pilot initiatives (e.g., Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot, Quebec's Nursing Credential Recognition Project)

If enrolled in general undergraduate or college-level diplomas and certificates, your spouse or partner is generally not eligible for an open work permit.

Application Timing

Your spouse or partner can apply:

• Before arriving in Canada – online from outside Canada
• After arriving in Canada – online with valid temporary resident status
• At a port of entry – if from a visa-exempt country

How to Apply

Steps to apply for an open work permit:

1. Prepare documents: passport, marriage certificate or proof of common-law partnership, your valid study permit, and proof of enrollment.
2. Apply online through the IRCC website:
   • Create an account
   • Complete the application
   • Upload documents
   • Pay fees: CA$155 (processing) + CA$100 (open work permit holder)

Note: Additional documents may be required depending on the country. Always check the latest IRCC instructions.

Processing Times

Processing times vary by country. Visit the IRCC website for current estimates.

Validity Period

The work permit is typically valid for the same duration as your study permit. Extensions should match any study permit extension.

Medical Exams and Job Restrictions

If your spouse or partner works in healthcare, childcare, or education, a medical exam may be required. Without it, work restrictions may apply.

Extending an Open Work Permit

To extend the permit, ensure:

• You hold a valid study permit
• You are enrolled full-time in a PGWP-eligible program at a DLI
• You are not in your final study term

Apply before the current permit expires to maintain legal status in Canada.