Can my spouse get a work permit while I am on an Express Entry work permit?

Depending on your own work permit category, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open spousal work permit — a work permit that allows them to work for any Canadian employer in any role, similar to the flexibility of a post-graduation work permit.

The eligibility for a spousal open work permit is tied to your own work permit type and the NOC skill level of your job. Spouses of workers in higher-skilled positions (NOC TEER 0 or 1 in many cases) and spouses of workers in specific IRCC-designated categories may qualify for an open spousal work permit. If your job falls into a lower TEER category, the spousal work permit may be restricted to a specific employer or may not be available at all.

Applications for a spousal work permit should be made at the same time as or shortly after the primary applicant's own work permit application, though they can also be filed from within Canada if both partners are already here. Processing times and requirements can vary. An open spousal work permit not only enables your partner to contribute financially while in Canada — it also allows them to accumulate Canadian work experience, which can help build their own CRS score if you are both aiming for permanent residence together.