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 , 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).
By mail:
In-Canada Sponsorship
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
CPC – Mississauga
P.O. Box 5040, Station B
Mississauga, ON L5A 3A4
By courier:
Case Processing Centre – Mississauga
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
2 Robert Speck Parkway, Suite 300
Mississauga, ON L4Z 1H8
If you have already submitted an application for permanent residence but have not yet applied for an open work permit, you can complete the Send your completed application, along with the appropriate fee, to:
Case Processing Centre – Edmonton
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Work permits for spouses or common-law partners, Station 777
9700 Jasper Avenue NW, Suite 55
Edmonton, AB T5J 4C3
If you have already received approval in principle on your permanent residence application – meaning you have received a letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stating you meet the permanent residence eligibility requirements, but you (or your family members) have not yet passed the medical, security and background checks – you may apply for an open work permit
If you were provided with a work permit under the initial pilot, you must apply for a before your status in Canada lapses.