SWICANADA

Open / Spousal Work Permit

Accompanying family members’ work permits will be valid for no longer than the duration of your own work permit.
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If you are authorized to work or study in Canada, your accompanying family members may also be able to work here by virtue of the permit you are issued. No other authorization is required. Open work permits allow them to work in any job with any employer. An open work permit also means that they may be hired without the employer having to obtain a Labour Market Opinion (the normal authorization required).

Accompanying family members’ work permits will be valid for no longer than the duration of your own work permit.

To successfully receive an Open / Spousal Work Permit, we have outlined below steps you must take:

  • As the primary work permit holder, you must be authorized to work in Canada for a period of at least six months
  • Each family member must apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for their own work permit – can take between 2 to 3 months to be approved
  • Your spouse’s eligibility for an open work permit depends on the skill level of your job
  • Your dependent children may be eligible for an open work permit through an Active Pilot Project
  • Each family member must obtain the appropriate license, certificate or registration for their profession
  • Pass an international medical exam performed by a designated medical practitioner if a family member intends to work in an occupation in which the protection of public health is essential
  • Apply for and accept an offer of employment in a full-time, part-time or casual position.