Work in Canada while your spouse/partner works or studies in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible if your spouse/partner is:

• A skilled worker: Holding a valid work permit for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation lasting 6+ months
• An international student: Enrolled full-time in a master's, doctoral, or eligible professional degree program at a publicly-funded university
• A permanent residence applicant: Who has passed the first stage of approval

Requirements

For the Applicant:

• Valid passport
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate or common-law evidence)
• Copy of spouse's valid work/study permit
• Copy of spouse's job offer or employment letter

For the Principal Applicant (Spouse):

• Must be employed in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
• Job must be full-time and permanent or at least 6 months in duration
• OR enrolled in eligible graduate program

Application Process

1. Gather all required documents
2. Apply online through IRCC portal
3. Pay application fees ($255)
4. Provide biometrics ($85)
5. Wait for processing (3-5 months)
6. Receive work permit decision

Benefits

• Work for any employer in Canada
• No job offer required
• Valid for same duration as principal applicant's permit
• Gain Canadian work experience
• No LMIA required

Common Refusal Reasons

• Principal applicant's job not in eligible NOC category
• Insufficient proof of relationship
• Principal applicant's permit expiring soon
• Missing required documents