Open work permits for family members of foreign workers: About the document

Family members of most foreign workers can apply for an open work permit.

An open work permit lets your family member work for any employer in Canada, except for one that

• is listed as ineligible on the list of employers who have failed to comply with the conditions, or
• regularly offers striptease, erotic dance, escort services or erotic massages

If your family member doesn’t plan to work

Outside Canada family members

If you’re applying for a work permit and your family members want to come to Canada, they must apply to visit or study.

In-Canada family members

If you’re extending your stay in Canada as a worker and your family members want to stay as well, they must apply or extend their stay as visitors or students in Canada.