Spousal open work permit eligibility depends on why the principal applicant is in Canada. The rules for spouses of foreign workers, international students and sponsored spouses are different and changed significantly in 2025 and 2026. Argus can help identify the correct category before you apply.
A spousal open work permit can allow an eligible spouse or common-law partner to work for most employers in Canada. It is not one single program; eligibility depends on the principal applicant's immigration category and status.
Under the general family-member measure, spouses of eligible foreign workers may qualify when the principal worker meets the current occupation and work-authorization rules. For many cases the principal worker must be in TEER 0 or 1, or a selected TEER 2 or 3 occupation, and their work authorization must generally remain valid for at least 16 months after IRCC receives the spouse's application. Exceptions apply to some groups.
Since January 21, 2025, general eligibility is limited mainly to spouses or common-law partners of students in master's programs of at least 16 months, doctoral programs, or select professional and other eligible programs identified by IRCC.
Certain spouses or common-law partners being sponsored for permanent residence from inside Canada may qualify under a separate family-sponsorship open work permit route.
Argus can identify the applicable category, review the principal applicant's status, occupation or study program, assess relationship and status documents and prepare or review the application.
No.
No. Eligibility is restricted to specified study programs.
Some sponsored spouses or common-law partners in Canada can qualify under a separate route.
Generally no, because this is an open work permit.
Immigration rules can change. These pages were reviewed against current official sources on September 23, 2026:
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“I had a great experience with Khushbu for my PGWP and my husband’s SOWP applications. She was professional, supportive, and guided us clearly throughout. Thanks to her help, both work permits were approved successfully. Thank you, Khushbu!”
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Every application depends on the individual facts and the rules in force when you apply. A consultation can help identify the requirements, documents and issues most relevant to your situation.