Spousal Open Work Permit in 2026: Who Still Qualifies
A spousal open work permit lets the spouse or common-law partner of a student or worker work in Canada for almost any employer. Before 2025, many spouses qualified automatically. Since January 21, 2025, eligibility is much narrower.
If your partner is a student
You may qualify if your partner is enrolled in a master's program of at least 16 months, a doctoral program, or one of IRCC's listed professional degree programs. College diplomas and most bachelor's programs no longer qualify.
If your partner is a worker
You may qualify if your partner works in a TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupation, or in a select TEER 2 or 3 occupation on IRCC's list, and has at least 16 months of work authorization remaining when you apply. Only the spouse or common-law partner may qualify under this route, Dependent children of workers generally no longer qualify, except working-age children of workers who are transitioning to permanent residence.
If you are being sponsored
A different open work permit is available to a spouse being sponsored for permanent residence from inside Canada. It follows separate rules. See our spousal sponsorship guide.
Check the details
Eligibility depends on your partner's actual occupation code and program, not on job titles. IRCC's occupation and program lists can change, so confirm the current lists before you apply.
Get help from a licensed consultant
I can check your partner's occupation or program against the current rules before you spend money on an application that may not succeed. No one can guarantee an approval.
Frequently asked questions
Does my partner's bachelor's degree qualify me? Generally not, in 2026. Master's, doctoral and certain professional programs qualify.
Do dependent children get open work permits? Generally not since January 2025, except in certain cases such as working-age children of workers who are transitioning to permanent residence.
How long is the permit valid? It is usually tied to the length of your partner's permit.
Sources: IRCC, open work permits for family members of workers and students; law-firm summaries of the January 21, 2025 changes.
This page is general information, not legal advice on your situation.