Work Legally While Your Partner Studies in Canada
Overview
If your spouse or common-law partner is studying in Canada on a valid study permit, you may be eligible to apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP). This permit allows you to work full-time for any Canadian employer, giving you the flexibility to support your family while living together in Canada.
At Lakes Land Immigration, we help international student families from India and across Canada successfully apply for Spouse Open Work Permits under the latest immigration policies.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for a Spouse Open Work Permit if:
- You are legally married or in a common-law relationship
- Your spouse holds a valid study permit and is enrolled in an eligible program
- You are either inside Canada or applying from India or another country
- You provide documents proving your relationship is genuine and ongoing
Policy Update – What You Need to Know
As of January 22, 2025, the Government of Canada has updated the rules around eligibility for spouses of international students.
To qualify for an open work permit, the student must be enrolled in:
A master’s or doctoral program (minimum 16 months)
A professional degree program, such as:
- Medicine
- Law (JD/LLB)
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Optometry
- Veterinary Medicine
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Education (B.Ed)
Spouses of undergraduate or diploma students are no longer eligible for open work permits.
Required Documents
- Valid study permit of your spouse
- Letter of enrollment from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
- Marriage certificate or common-law declaration (Form IMM 5409)
- Proof of cohabitation (if applicable)
- Passport, digital photo, and biometrics (if required)
Processing Time & Fees
- Application Fee: $255 CAD
- Biometrics: $85 CAD (if applicable)
- Processing Time: 8–12 weeks (may vary based on location and volume)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can spouses of international students work in Canada in 2025?
Yes, but only if the student is enrolled in a master’s, PhD, or eligible professional program.
Can I apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit from India?
Yes, You can apply online from India once your partner has a valid study permit and is enrolled in an eligible program.
Do diploma or bachelor’s students qualify for their spouses’ work permits?
No, Under new 2025 rules, undergraduate/diploma-level programs are not eligible for SOWPs.
How long is the spouse work permit valid?
Typically, it matches the study permit duration of the student spouse.
Can I work anywhere with this permit?
Yes, The Spouse Open Work Permit is not employer-specific — you can work full-time for any employer in Canada.
Why Choose Us
Work with regulated Canadian immigration consultants (RCICs) who know the law and care about your case.
We tailor every application to your unique background, goals, and eligibility
No hidden steps or fees—just honest advice and regular updates throughout.
Years of experience and attention to detail mean higher approval chances.
From consultation to post-arrival, we’re with you every step of the journey.