CUSMA provides significant benefits for family members of work permit holders.

Spouses and Common-Law Partners

Spouses and common-law partners of CUSMA work permit holders may be eligible for open work permits, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for CUSMA worker:

• Work permit must be valid for minimum of 6 months after spouse’s application is received
• Must be employed (or will be employed) in high-skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
• Must be living in Canada while working, or planning to live in Canada

Eligibility Requirements for Spouse/Common-Law Partner:

If applying from within Canada, the spouse must be in one of these situations:

• Hold valid temporary resident status as visitor, worker, or student
• Are eligible for restoration of status as visitor, worker, or student
• Are authorized to work in Canada without permit but want work permit to work in different job

Benefits of Spousal Open Work Permit:

• Work for ANY employer in Canada
• Change employers without needing new work permit
• Work in any occupation (except those restricted for health/safety reasons)
• Work anywhere in Canada
• Typically valid for same duration as principal worker’s permit

How to Apply:

• Can apply simultaneously with principal CUSMA worker’s application
• Can apply separately after principal worker receives permit
• No job offer required (hence “open” work permit)
• Applications processed through standard work permit channels

Important Note: Spouses of CUSMA workers remain eligible for open work permits under international trade agreement provisions, even following January 2025 changes to spousal work permit eligibility that affected other categories. This is a significant advantage for CUSMA families.

Dependent Children

School Attendance:

• Children can attend kindergarten through high school (K-12) WITHOUT study permits
• Applies to children of principal CUSMA work permit holder
• No separate application required for K-12 education
• Saves families application fees and processing time

Study Permits Required For:

• Post-secondary education (colleges, universities, vocational schools)
• Children who reach age 18 while studying
• Programs longer than 6 months duration at post-secondary level

If your spouse and children satisfy the general entry requirements, they may accompany you to Canada and benefit from these provisions.

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Get legal help

For strategic guidance on expanding your business to Canada—whether through the C11, ICT, LMIA, or investment-driven pathways — contact our preferred immigration lawyer, Sobirovs Law Firm at 1-416-895-3026 or wecare@sobirovs.com. The Sobirovs team helps entrepreneurs navigate Canada’s business immigration system with clarity and a structured plan for long-term success.

								
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