Now You Can Bring Your Spouse to Canada While You Study Here
Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students, and now it’s even more rewarding. The Government of Canada has made it possible for spouses and common-law partners of international students to join them and work in Canada. This initiative aims to support families and enhance the experience of international students in Canada.
Open Work Permit for Spouses and Common-Law Partners
The spouses and common-law partners of certain international students may be eligible for an open work permit. An open work permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada, with a few exceptions, such as employers who have not complied with certain conditions or those offering services like striptease, erotic dance, escort services, or erotic massages.
Who Can Apply?
Starting April 30, 2024, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit if you hold a valid study permit and are enrolled in:
- A master’s or doctoral degree program
- An eligible pilot program
- Specific professional degree programs at a university, including:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- Bachelor of Nursing (BN)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
For those participating in eligible pilot programs, such as Québec’s “Le projet de reconnaissance des compétences d’infirmières et d’infirmiers recruté-e-s à l’international,” additional documentation will be required.
Eligibility Criteria and Documentation
To be eligible, your spouse or common-law partner must provide:
- A valid letter of acceptance from your designated learning institution (DLI)
- A proof of enrolment letter from your DLI
- Transcripts from your current program
- Proof of participation in an eligible pilot program, if applicable
- Proof of their relationship to you, the student
Application Periods and Requirements
From March 19 to April 29, 2024:
Your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit if you are enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program or one of the specified professional degree programs.
Before March 19, 2024:
Eligibility depends on your study permit, your eligibility for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), and your status as a full-time student at a recognized institution. Required documents include proof of full-time enrollment, transcripts, and a copy of your study permit.
Extending an Existing Open Work Permit:
To extend an existing open work permit, the same eligibility criteria apply, and documentation proving your current enrollment and study permit status is required.
Duration of the Open Work Permit
Typically, the open work permit for your spouse or common-law partner will be valid for the same duration as your study permit.
Benefits of the Open Work Permit
This opportunity allows spouses and common-law partners to work and gain Canadian experience, contributing to the household income and enriching their Canadian experience. It also helps in building a stronger, more integrated community for international students and their families.
Bringing your spouse to Canada while you study can significantly enhance your academic and personal experience. With the open work permit, your partner can work and thrive in Canada, making your time here even more rewarding.