Generally yes, for inland sponsorship. If your spouse is being sponsored from inside Canada and has valid temporary status, they can usually apply for a spousal open work permit along with — or after — the sponsorship application. This lets them work for most employers while the PR application is processed, which often takes many months. The permit is typically tied to the sponsorship staying active. Outland applicants living abroad do not get this option. Details and current rules are on canada.ca.
Updated July 2026