Canada Spousal Open Work Permit 2025: How International Students' Partners Can Work Legally in 5 Key Points

Canada Open Work Permit (OWP): Canada has become one of the top study destinations for Indian students, with more than 400,000 Indians currently enrolled in higher education programs. One of the biggest advantages of studying in Canada is that international students’ spouses or common-law partners can also apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP), which allows them to work in the country while their partner is pursuing studies.

This permit not only supports families but also provides spouses with financial stability and international work exposure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada works, eligibility rules, and application steps.

1. What is a Spousal Open Work Permit (OWP)?

An Open Work Permit is a special visa authorization issued by the Canadian government that allows spouses or partners of international students to work in any company or industry across Canada.

• The permit is valid for the same duration as the student’s study permit.

• It cannot exceed the validity of the student’s program.

• Spouses must be medically fit and free from any criminal record.

• The work permit cannot be extended if the student is in their final semester.

Essentially, the OWP ensures that partners of students studying in Canada can contribute to the household income while building their own professional experience.

2. Eligibility: Courses That Qualify Spouses for OWP

The spousal OWP is granted only if the student is pursuing specific degree programs. These include:

• Doctoral (PhD) programs

• Master’s programs of 16 months or longer

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)

• Law programs (LLB, JD, BCL)

• Doctor of Medicine (MD)

• Doctor of Optometry (OD)

• Pharmacy programs (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)

• Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) or BN

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)

• Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)

If the student is enrolled in any of these recognized programs, their spouse becomes eligible to apply for an OWP.

3. Special Programs That Also Allow Spousal OWP

In addition to mainstream courses, spouses may also qualify if the student is enrolled in specific pilot or recognition programs, such as:

• Francophone Minority Community Student Pilot (FMCSP)

• Internationally educated nurses’ and medical technologists’ recognition programs

• Supervised Practice Experience Partnership

• Nurse Re-entry programs (e.g., Red River College Polytechnic)

• Midwifery Bridging Programs (University of British Columbia)

• Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program (UBC)

• Post-degree diploma in Nursing Practice in Canada (Langara College)

These specialized programs aim to attract skilled professionals and ensure that their families can also integrate smoothly into Canadian society.

4. How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit

Applying for an OWP involves a step-by-step process:

Visit the official Canadian immigration website – canada.ca – and review the guidelines.

Use the IRCC tool to check required documents.

Create an account on the IRCC portal and log in.

Fill out the Open Work Permit application form.

Submit supporting documents, including:

• Student’s admission letter

• Academic transcripts

• A valid copy of the student’s study permit

Upload medical clearance and proof of relationship (marriage certificate).

Pay the required application fee and submit the form online.

Once approved, the spouse will receive a work permit that is directly linked to the student’s study duration.

5. Work Permit Extension Rules

• Extensions are only possible if the student continues studies in Canada with a valid study permit.

• The student must not be in their final semester.

• The course should qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completion.

• Applications for extension must be submitted through the IRCC portal before the current permit expires.

Why This Matters for Indian Students

For many Indian students, the opportunity to bring their spouse and allow them to work legally is a major advantage of studying in Canada. It eases financial burdens, helps families stay together, and provides partners with international work experience.

With Canada’s rising popularity among international students, the Spousal Open Work Permit (OWP) makes the country even more attractive for families planning long-term careers and settlement abroad.

In summary, the Spousal Open Work Permit is a valuable pathway for partners of foreign students in Canada, enabling them to work across industries, gain experience, and contribute to family income—all while staying together during the student’s education journey.