Work permit pilot extended for in-Canada family class spouses and common-law partners
January 30, 2019
Ottawa
The Government of Canada is extending the open work permit pilot for spouses and common-law partners applying for permanent residence under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class until July 31, 2020.
Canada recognizes that when families can work while living together, their integration outcomes are improved. Extending this pilot ensures applicants are able to work, provide for their families and contribute to the Canadian economy while waiting for their permanent resident applications to be processed.
To be eligible for an open work permit under the pilot, you must be living in Canada and be sponsored under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class by your spouse or partner. You must have valid temporary resident status (as a visitor, student or worker) and live at the same address as your sponsor.
If you are submitting a new application, you may submit a work permit application at the same time as your sponsorship application, along with an application for permanent residence. You must include the appropriate fees, and send all completed applications together. Applications must be sent by mail or courier (you cannot deliver them by hand).