Moving to Canada for work is a big step, but you do not have to go alone. With the Canada Dependent Visa, your family can come with you. In some cases, your spouse may also qualify for an Open Work Permit. This guide covers everything you need to know for 2026.
This visa category allows the family members of a temporary foreign worker to live legally in Canada. In specific eligible cases, dependents can also study or work during their stay. You can generally sponsor the following family members:
Before your family applies, you, as the primary applicant, must meet specific requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
| Valid Job Offer | Must be from a Canadian employer, either LMIA-approved or LMIA-exempt. |
| Work Experience | At least two years in NOC TEER Level 0, 1, 2, or 3. |
| Valid Passport | Must remain valid for the entire duration of your expected work period. |
| Medical Exam | Necessary for stays exceeding six months or for jobs in healthcare. |
| Financial Proof | Bank statements, salary slips, and savings to show you can support your family. |
The eligibility of your dependents relies heavily on your specific job level and work permit type.
| Principal Worker Situation | Spouse Eligibility | Children Eligibility |
| TEER 0 or 1 job (plus 16 months work authorisation) | Eligible for Open Work Permit | Visitor or Study Permit |
| TEER 2 or 3 eligible occupation | Eligible for Open Work Permit | Visitor or Study Permit |
| TEER 4 or 5 job | Not eligible for a work permit under the new rules | Visitor Visa only |
Important for Canada PR 2026: New immigration rules mean that spouses of workers in TEER 4 or 5 jobs cannot get open work permits. Dependent children can only get visitor or study visas, not open work permits.
For the Main Work Permit Holder:
For the Dependent Spouse or Partner:
The cost for a Spousal Open Work Permit is $255 CAD, while a standard Visitor Visa costs $100 CAD per person. You will also need to pay a biometrics fee of $85 CAD per person.
Processing times depend on your location. Open work permit applications from within Canada typically take two to four months. Overseas visitor visa applications take about 88 days, but this may vary by visa office.
Can my spouse work in Canada if I have a work permit?
Yes, provided your job falls under TEER 0, 1, or an eligible TEER 2 or 3 category. In these cases, your spouse can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit to work for any employer.
Can my children also get a work permit?
No. Under the current rules, dependent children cannot get family open work permits. They must apply for a visitor visa or a study permit to attend school in Canada.
How long is the Spousal Open Work Permit valid?
The permit is generally issued to match the expiration date of the principal worker’s permit, which is typically two to three years.
Do my dependents need to take a medical exam?
A medical exam is mandatory if your family members intend to stay for more than 6 months or have recently lived in certain designated countries.
What happens if my job is in TEER 4 or TEER 5?
Spouses of workers in these lower-skilled categories are not eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit. However, they may apply for a standard visitor visa to accompany you.
