Canada has introduced an updated rule that allows spouses or common-law partners of international students to work in the country while their partners complete certain programmes at Canadian universities. The new guidance, which came into effect on January 21, 2025, outlines specific academic programmes that qualify for the spousal open work permit. This development is expected to benefit many international students and their spouses.
The updated rules recognise 11 professional degree programmes that make spouses or common-law partners eligible for an open work permit. These programmes include Doctor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor, Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Optometry, Pharmacy, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing, among others. Additionally, spouses and common-law partners may qualify if the international student is enrolled in a doctoral programme or a master’s degree programme lasting 16 months or longer.
To qualify for the open work permit, the international student must hold a valid study permit and be actively enrolled in an eligible programme. The spouse or common-law partner must also meet the standard eligibility requirements for an open work permit before authorisation can be granted. The student must remain actively engaged in the approved programme for the spousal work permit arrangement to apply.
The eligible programmes cover major fields including healthcare, law, education, and engineering. This gives accompanying spouses and common-law partners an opportunity to seek employment in Canada while their partners study. The development is expected to benefit many international students and their spouses who wish to work in Canada.
The Canadian government had previously identified three specific groups of foreign nationals who qualified for a work permit fee exemption. The waiver targeted individuals who had survived exploitative or coercive situations, domestic violence, or time spent in state care. Eligible applicants were urged to confirm their status through official government platforms before applying.
The new guidance is a significant development for international students and their spouses who wish to work in Canada. The updated rules provide more opportunities for spouses and common-law partners to seek employment in the country. The eligible programmes cover a range of fields, giving many individuals the chance to work in Canada while their partners study.
The article was reported by Salifu Bagulube Moro, a Current Affairs Editor at Yen.com.gh, with over five years of experience in journalism. He graduated from the Ghana Institute of Journalism in 2018 and has worked with various news portals, including Opera News and Ghanatalksbusiness.com.
Key points
- Canada introduces new work permit route for spouses of international students in 11 courses
- Eligible programmes cover major fields including healthcare, law, education, and engineering
- International student must hold a valid study permit and be actively enrolled in an eligible programme
