Changes to Spousal or Common-law Work Permit program

IRCC has provided clarifications regarding the Spousal or Common-law Work Permit program. To qualify for an open work permit for spouses or common-law partners, the study permit holder must be studying in post-graduation work permit eligible programs and institutions.

For greater certainty, spouses or common-law partners of international students studying the Intensive English program may not qualify for an open work permit. For more information, read on spousal open work permits.