Recent Changes to Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet the updated eligibility requirements before submitting your application.
If you’re the spouse or common-law partner of an international student, you may qualify for an open work permit. This permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, except those who:
- Are listed as ineligible on the list of non-compliant employers, or
- Primarily provide striptease, erotic dance, escort services, or erotic massages.
Overview
- Who can apply
- How to apply
- Extending an open work permit
Who Can Apply
Starting January 21, 2025, you may qualify for an open work permit if your spouse or partner:
- Holds a valid study permit, and
- Is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- A master’s degree program lasting 16 months or more
- A doctoral degree program
- An eligible program
- One of these professional degree programs at a university:
- 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)
If you’re not eligible for this type of work permit, you might still qualify for another.
Required Documents
To prove your spouse or partner’s enrollment in a program of study, provide one of the following:
- A valid letter of acceptance from their designated learning institution (DLI)
- A proof of enrollment letter from their DLI
- Transcripts from their current program
If applicable, also include proof of participation in eligible programs, such as:
- A letter from the province or territory
- A letter of acceptance indicating admission to the program
You’ll also need documents proving your relationship with the student.
Validity of the Open Work Permit
The work permit is typically valid for the same duration as the study permit.
How to Apply
Ensure you have the necessary tools
- A scanner or camera for electronic copies of documents
- A valid credit or debit card
Read the instruction guide
The guide will help you complete the application form correctly.Prepare answers for the online tool
Complete a questionnaire to receive a personalized document checklist.Know the fees
Application fees usually include processing fees for everyone included.Create or sign in to your account
Use your account to pay fees, submit your application, and check your status.
Note: If online application issues arise, follow specific instructions for completing the application based on your location (inside or outside Canada).
Extending an Open Work Permit
Your spouse or partner may extend their open work permit if they meet the following criteria:
- They have a valid study permit.
- They are physically in Canada during their studies.
- They are enrolled full-time in a PGWP-eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- They are not in the final term of their program.
Important: They cannot extend their permit beyond the expiration date of your study permit.
Documents Required for Extension
To extend the work permit, provide:
- Proof of full-time enrollment at a qualifying institution, such as:
- A letter of enrollment from the DLI
- Transcripts from the current program
- A copy of the study permit
This process ensures your application is aligned with the updated criteria.
References: