The Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses in 2025 has officially been extended and expanded under the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway, offering eligible spouses the opportunity to live and work in Canada while their partner’s PR application is being processed. This move by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reflects the country’s strong commitment to family reunification and skilled immigration.
Under this 2025 update, spouses and common-law partners of both temporary residents (like students or workers) and PR applicants are eligible for open work permits, meaning they do not require a specific job offer or employer sponsorship. This gives them flexibility to work in any field or province across Canada.
The Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses is also available to those whose partners are applying under the Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or TR to PR public policy stream.
Who Is Eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit in 2025?
As of 2025, the following categories are eligible under the Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses:
-
Spouses/common-law partners of skilled workers with a valid work permit
-
Partners of full-time international students enrolled in DLI-approved institutions
-
Spouses of applicants under the TR to PR public policy
-
Inland spouses applying for family class sponsorship (spousal PR)
-
Partners of PNP and Express Entry applicants with valid application numbers
Additional eligibility criteria include:
-
Living in Canada with valid temporary resident status
-
A copy of the sponsoring partner’s work/study permit or AOR (Acknowledgement of Receipt) for PR
-
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate or common-law declaration)
The Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses ensures that families can stay together and contribute to the Canadian economy while navigating the immigration process.
Benefits of the Open Work Permit for Spouses
There are many benefits to obtaining a spousal open work permit in Canada:
-
No job offer required – complete employment flexibility
-
Work in any industry or province
-
Valid for up to 2 years, renewable based on sponsor’s status
-
Helps gain Canadian work experience, supporting future PR
-
Allows dual income support for immigrant families
-
Ensures faster integration into Canadian society
The Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses plays a critical role in attracting skilled immigrants by offering stability and work access to their families.
How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit in 2025
To apply for a Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses, follow these steps:
-
Create an online account on the IRCC portal
-
Choose the “Spouse of skilled worker/student” or “Spousal sponsorship applicant” category
-
Upload required documents:
-
Passport bio-data page
-
Marriage/common-law proof
-
Sponsor’s valid permit or PR file number
-
Digital photo and other ID proofs
-
-
Pay the application fee (CAD $255, including work permit and biometrics fee)
-
Submit the application and schedule a biometric appointment if required
Processing times for the Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses typically range from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the application type and current volume.
Provinces Supporting TR to PR Pathway for Spouses
Many provinces actively support open work permits for spouses through their PNP programs and provincial policies. Popular ones include:
| Province | Special Support for Spouses |
|---|---|
| Ontario | Priority processing for OINP family stream |
| British Columbia | Tech and healthcare sector support |
| Alberta | Post-Graduation and skilled worker family integration |
| Saskatchewan | Employer-driven immigration program extensions |
| Nova Scotia | Family support stream for PR candidates |
These provincial supports enhance the implementation of the Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses, ensuring smoother integration across Canada.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses in 2025?
Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers, international students, or PR applicants under TR to PR, Express Entry, or PNP are eligible.
Do I need a job offer to apply for a spousal open work permit?
No, the open work permit allows spouses to work anywhere in Canada without needing a specific job offer.
How long does it take to process a spousal open work permit?
Processing time ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the category and document submission.
Can I apply for a spousal work permit if I’m already in Canada on a visitor visa?
Yes, you can apply from within Canada, but you must maintain valid status and submit all required documents.
Is the permit renewable?
Yes, the Canada Open Work Permit for Spouses can be renewed as long as the sponsor maintains valid status or their PR application is in process.
Click here to know more.