Spousal open work permit
Statutory definition
IRPR s 185(b) authorises open work permits for the spouses and common-law partners of skilled workers in NOC TEER 0, 1, or (in some programs) TEER 2 or 3, and for spouses and CLPs of international students enrolled in a graduate or certain undergraduate programs. The scope was expanded in 2023 as part of IRCC's effort to address labour market participation barriers for accompanying family members.
Explanation
The spousal OWP allows accompanying family members to contribute economically while their partner is in Canada as a temporary worker or student. Eligibility criteria have expanded over time — the key requirement is that the principal applicant holds a qualifying work permit (typically high-skilled) or study permit (typically graduate level). Spouses must apply for the OWP separately and must maintain their own valid temporary resident status. The OWP duration typically matches the principal applicant's permit.