How long is a spousal open work permit valid for?

A spousal open work permit is dependent on the principal applicant's status in Canada. Its expiry date is usually aligned with the spouse's study or work permit, and it cannot extend beyond the principal applicant's authorized stay.

For spouses of workers, the current rules also require that the worker has a sufficient period of authorization remaining (at least 16 months) at the time of application. If the principal applicant extends their permit, the spouse generally needs to apply to extend the open work permit as well so the dates stay aligned.