Can my spouse or common-law partner get an open work permit if I work or study in Canada?

If you are working or studying in Canada, your spouse or common-law partner may be able to apply for an open work permit so they can work for almost any employer. Eligibility depends on your own status, such as being a skilled worker or an eligible student, and meeting the current criteria.

There are exclusions. For example, a spouse may not qualify if you hold only a study permit but are not in an eligible program, if you yourself hold a spousal open work permit, or if certain refugee or removal-order situations apply. Because these rules were updated in 2026, confirm the current eligibility for your specific status before your spouse applies.