The Government of Canada and the province of Quebec have introduced a new temporary public policy that expands work permit access for spouses and common-law partners of certain applicants seeking permanent selection in Quebec. The measure is designed to support family unity, address labour shortages, and provide greater stability for workers transitioning toward permanent residence.
The policy took effect on June 5, 2026, and extends eligibility for open work permits to spouses and common-law partners of qualified temporary foreign workers who have applied for permanent selection under Quebec’s skilled worker immigration system.
What Has Changed?
Under the new policy, eligible spouses and common-law partners can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for almost any employer in Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a specific job offer.
The measure replaces and expands an earlier temporary policy, broadening eligibility and providing additional support to families awaiting decisions on their immigration applications.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, the principal applicant must generally:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Immigration Program | Have applied for permanent selection under Quebec’s Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) |
| Invitation Status | Have received an invitation to apply for permanent selection from Quebec |
| Application Status | Have submitted a permanent selection application (DSP) to Quebec |
| Employment | Be working in Quebec under an eligible work permit |
| Temporary Status | Maintain valid immigration status or qualify under the temporary policy provisions |
Eligible spouses or common-law partners must be included as accompanying family members in the permanent selection application and meet applicable immigration requirements.
Open Work Permit Benefits
The expanded policy provides several advantages for spouses and partners:
- Ability to work for most employers in Canada
- Increased household financial stability
- Greater flexibility in career choices
- Reduced reliance on employer-specific permits
- Improved support during lengthy immigration processing periods
The government says the policy aims to reduce uncertainty for families while helping Quebec retain skilled workers needed by the provincial economy.
Supporting Quebec’s Labour Market
Quebec continues to experience labour shortages across numerous sectors, including:
- Healthcare
- Skilled trades
- Manufacturing
- Technology
- Transportation
- Hospitality
By allowing spouses and partners to work, the province gains access to a larger labour force while improving retention of skilled foreign workers already living in Quebec.
Temporary Measure Valid Until End of 2026
The public policy is temporary and is scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, unless extended or modified by the government. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications as early as possible to avoid potential delays.
Part of Broader Quebec Immigration Reforms
The announcement follows several recent immigration initiatives designed to support Quebec’s immigration system. Earlier in 2026, Canada introduced temporary work permit measures allowing certain Quebec skilled workers awaiting permanent selection decisions to continue working for up to an additional 12 months.
The latest expansion further demonstrates Quebec’s focus on retaining skilled workers and supporting their families while permanent immigration applications are being processed.
Conclusion
Quebec’s decision to extend special work permit eligibility to spouses and common-law partners of permanent-selection applicants represents a significant step toward supporting immigrant families and addressing labour market needs. By providing open work permits to eligible spouses, the province is helping families maintain financial stability while contributing additional skilled workers to the economy.
As Quebec continues refining its immigration system, measures such as this highlight the province’s commitment to attracting, retaining, and integrating skilled foreign talent. For many families navigating the path to permanent residence, the expanded work permit access offers greater flexibility, security, and opportunity while they await final immigration decisions.
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