You need a work permit The spouse, common-law partner or a family member of someone working in Canada needs a work permit

If you’re the spouse, common-law partner or a family member of someone working temporarily in Canada, you need a work permit to work in Canada.

You may be eligible for an open work permit if you’re

• the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker in an occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0 or skill levels A or B
  • The skilled worker must be authorized to work for at least 6 months after you apply for your work permit.
• the spouse or common-law partner of someone accepted for the Atlantic Immigration Program in a job under NOC skill type 0 or skill levels A, B or C
• the spouse or common-law partner of a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) holder who is eligible for the International Mobility Program Plus
• a family member of a foreign representative
• a family member of a foreign military member who is working in Canada

You must also

• be in a genuine relationship with the person who makes you eligible for this open work permit
• meet the general eligibility requirements for a work permit

If your spouse or common-law partner has an open work permit

If they have an open work permit (for example, a post graduation work permit), you must attach a copy of your spouse’s or common-law partner’s work permit to your application for an open work permit, along with either

• a letter from your spouse’s or common-law partner’s current employer that confirms they work there in an occupation under the NOC skill type 0 or skill levels A or B
• a copy of your spouse’s or common-law partner’s employment offer or contract

Your work permit won’t be valid

• longer than your spouse’s or common-law partner’s permit
• beyond the expiry date on your passport