Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP) has introduced updated rules for spouses and common-law partners of study permit holders. These new rules aim to help spouses and partners enter Canada and find employment, which can strengthen the Canadian economy and academic institutions.
Open Work Permit for Spouses
The open work permit category is for spouses and common-law partners of full-time students who are not study visa holders themselves. To apply for this permit, you must meet specific criteria:
- Genuine Relationship: You must have a real relationship with the principal foreign national (the study permit holder).
- Eligibility: You must be eligible to apply for a work permit from inside Canada, have valid temporary resident status, or be eligible for restoration of status as a temporary resident.
Extending an Open Work Permit
If you are extending your open work permit on or after March 19, 2024, you qualify under the updated rules. The principal candidate (the student) must meet the criteria that were in place before March 19, 2024.
Application Submission Dates
For applications submitted on April 30, 2024, or later, officers will need to see specific documents to assess your application for a spousal open work permit.
Required Documentation
To apply for a spousal open work permit, you need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of Relationship: This can include a marriage certificate, a Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union, or other proof of relationship for spouses of students enrolled in a graduate or professional degree-granting program.
- Proof of Enrollment: A letter of enrollment from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for spouses or partners of students in eligible pilot programs run by a province or territory.
- Current Program Enrollment: Documentation proving the foreign student’s enrollment in a degree-granting program, such as a DLI acceptance letter.
Key Information in Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | International Mobility Program (IMP) |
| Eligibility | Spouses/common-law partners of full-time students |
| Application Deadline | April 30, 2024 |
| Required Documents | Proof of relationship, proof of enrollment, DLI acceptance letter |
| Key Dates | Extensions after March 19, 2024; applications after April 30, 2024 |
Steps to Apply for Spousal Open Work Permit
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for applying.
- Gather Documents: Collect proof of relationship and proof of the student’s enrollment.
- Complete Application: Fill out the application form accurately.
- Submit Application: Submit your application and documents online by the deadline.
Benefits of the New Rules
- Economic Boost: Helps spouses find employment, contributing to the Canadian economy.
- Support for Academic Institutions: Enhances the competitiveness of Canadian academic institutions.
- Family Unification: Allows families to stay together while one member studies in Canada.
Conclusion
The updated rules for spouses of study permit holders under the International Mobility Program provide significant benefits. By understanding the eligibility criteria and required documentation, spouses and common-law partners can successfully apply for an open work permit and enjoy the opportunities in Canada.
Who can apply for the spousal open work permit?
Frequently Asked Questions
Spouses and common-law partners of full-time students in Canada who are not study visa holders themselves.
What documents are required for the application?
Proof of relationship, proof of the student’s enrollment in a degree-granting program, and a DLI acceptance letter.
When should I submit my application?
Applications should be submitted by April 30, 2024.
How can I check my eligibility?
Ensure you have a genuine relationship with the study permit holder and meet the eligibility criteria for applying from inside Canada.
By following these guidelines, you can take advantage of the new rules and successfully apply for a spousal open work permit in Canada.
