Canada spouse

Under Service – Immigration – Canada – PR – Spouse Open Work Permit

How to apply
You must now apply online
As of September 23, 2022, you must apply online for this program.
If you can’t apply online, and require accommodations, including for a disability, you can ask for the application in another format (paper, braille or large print).
To apply to sponsor your spouse, partner or child, there are 2 applications:
• You must apply to become a sponsor.
• Your spouse, partner or child must apply for permanent residence.
If you want to sponsor your adopted child or an orphaned family member, follow the instructions to sponsor your adopted child instead.
There are 4 steps to sponsor your spouse, partner or child:
1. Apply to sponsor
The sponsor must
• download and complete the PDF forms in the application package
• digitally sign, along with the person you’re sponsoring (principal applicant)
The person you’re sponsoring (principal applicant) will
• upload them to their online application
• electronically sign for the entire application, including those of any other family members
Get the application package
The application package includes the:
• document checklist for you and the persons you want to sponsor
• forms you and the persons you want to sponsor need to fill out
• instruction guide to help you and your family members fill out the forms correctly
Read the guide carefully before you complete the application form. The sponsorship application fee for processing your application can’t be refunded.
Helping your spouse, partner or child with their application?
There are certain steps you need to complete if you want to:
• prepare your family members’ application for them (this would mean that you’d be acting as their representative)
• check on their application status
You have to request permission and provide the right forms with your application.
Find out how to act as a representative or access your family members’ information.

2. Apply to be sponsored (permanent residence)
Sign in or create a Permanent residence online application portal account.
You must fill out these digital forms online
• Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
• Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
• Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
• Supplementary Information – Your travels (IMM 5562)
Working in Canada
If you already have a work permit, you can keep working as long as the permit is valid.
You may be eligible to apply for an open work permit if
• you live in Canada with the person sponsoring you
• you got an acknowledgment of receipt letter that says your permanent residence application is being processed
We’ll refuse your open work permit application if you submit it with your application for permanent residence in the Permanent Residence Portal.