Introduction
Canada is known worldwide for its progressive immigration system, family-friendly policies, and commitment to family reunification. One of the most common pathways for individuals looking to move to Canada is through spousal sponsorship, especially after marrying a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The Canadian government continues to prioritize family class immigration, and in 2025, the process for obtaining a Dependant Visa—commonly referred to as the Spousal Sponsorship Visa—remains a reliable and structured route to permanent residency. Whether you’re already in Canada or residing abroad, marrying a Canadian opens doors to long-term immigration opportunities.
The Dependant Visa allows spouses, common-law partners, and conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to join their loved ones in Canada and eventually apply for permanent residency. In many cases, applicants may also be eligible for an open work permit while waiting for the approval of their permanent residency application. This means that not only can you reunite with your partner, but you can also contribute to the Canadian economy while your paperwork is processed. As of 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has improved processing times and enhanced its digital systems to make sponsorship more accessible.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation, and how to avoid common pitfalls is crucial for success. Moreover, many foreign spouses or partners wish to work in Canada once they arrive. This guide offers detailed insights not only on the Dependant Visa but also outlines entry-level job options, how to find employment, and how to settle in Canada effectively. Whether you’re applying from abroad or within Canada, this article will help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Entry Level Jobs for Immigrants
Many newcomers who arrive in Canada on a Dependant Visa (through marriage or sponsorship) are eligible to apply for Open Work Permits, allowing them to work for any employer without needing a separate Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Below is a list of entry-level jobs commonly pursued by new immigrants:
| Job Title | Average Salary (CAD/year) | Industry | Open to Work Permit Holders? | Requires Canadian Experience? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food Service Worker | $28,000 – $35,000 | Hospitality | Yes | No |
| Customer Service Representative | $32,000 – $42,000 | Retail/Services | Yes | No |
| Personal Support Worker | $35,000 – $45,000 | Healthcare | Yes | Sometimes |
| Housekeeping Attendant | $27,000 – $34,000 | Tourism/Hospitality | Yes | No |
| General Labourer | $30,000 – $40,000 | Construction/Manufacturing | Yes | No |
| Warehouse Associate | $32,000 – $38,000 | Logistics/Retail | Yes | No |
| Cleaner/Janitor | $28,000 – $36,000 | Maintenance | Yes | No |
| Delivery Driver | $33,000 – $45,000 | Transportation | Yes | Sometimes (license required) |
| Childcare Assistant | $30,000 – $40,000 | Education/Caregiving | Yes | Sometimes (certification) |
| Cashier/Retail Sales Clerk | $29,000 – $35,000 | Retail | Yes | No |
These roles can be excellent stepping stones while building Canadian work experience or pursuing further education or licensing in your field of expertise.
Application Requirements and Documents
Applying for a Dependant Visa (Spousal Sponsorship) in Canada involves a detailed but manageable process. Here’s what you need to prepare and understand in 2025:
1. Eligibility Criteria for the Sponsor
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- At least 18 years old.
- Not receiving social assistance (except for disability).
- Must prove the ability to support the spouse financially.
- Must not have sponsored a previous spouse within the last five years.
2. Relationship Eligibility
- Must be legally married, or
- In a common-law relationship (living together for at least 12 consecutive months), or
- In a conjugal relationship (where marriage or cohabitation isn’t possible due to barriers such as immigration rules or religious laws).
3. Required Documents
- IMM 1344: Application to Sponsor.
- IMM 0008: Generic Application Form for Canada.
- Marriage Certificate (translated if not in English or French).
- Proof of Relationship (photos, correspondence, travel records, etc.).
- Police Clearance Certificates from all countries where the applicant has lived for more than six months since age 18.
- Medical Examination by a panel physician.
- Passport and travel history.
- Proof of Sponsor’s Status in Canada (PR card, Canadian passport, etc.).
- Proof of financial capability (bank statements, employment letter).
4. Optional (Highly Recommended)
- Open Work Permit Application (IMM 5710): Can be submitted concurrently with an inland sponsorship application.
5. Processing Time (as of 2025)
- Inland sponsorship: 10–12 months.
- Outland sponsorship: 8–10 months.
Proper documentation and honest representation are essential. Misrepresentation can lead to bans or application refusals.
Employment Websites to Find Opportunities
Once your Open Work Permit is approved or if you already hold another work-eligible status, finding a job becomes the next priority. These trusted job portals can help new immigrants, including sponsored spouses, secure employment in Canada:
1. Job Bank Canada
Website: www.jobbank.gc.ca
Canada’s official job portal. Offers filters for newcomers and work permit holders.
2. Indeed Canada
Website: ca.indeed.com
Search by keywords like “entry-level,” “open work permit accepted,” or “no Canadian experience.”
3. LinkedIn
Website: www.linkedin.com
Optimize your profile for Canadian employers and activate job alerts. Many newcomers find their first Canadian job here.
4. Workopolis
Website: www.workopolis.com
Good for retail, hospitality, and administrative roles often open to new immigrants.
5. Glassdoor Canada
Website: www.glassdoor.ca
Includes salary transparency and company reviews, helping you avoid exploitative employers.
6. Settlement Agencies and Community Services
Many provinces have immigrant-serving organizations that help with:
- Resume building (Canadian format)
- Interview prep
- Job search coaching
Examples: ACCES Employment (Ontario), ISSofBC (British Columbia), YMCA Newcomer Services
7. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Portals
While this is more relevant for economic immigration, many provinces list jobs that could lead to permanent residency or secondary sponsorship routes.
Conclusion
Moving to Canada through marriage or spousal sponsorship remains one of the most effective and legally protected immigration pathways in 2025. The Dependant Visa, offered under the family sponsorship category, allows spouses and common-law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to join their loved ones and begin a new life in Canada. With the ability to apply for an Open Work Permit, sponsored spouses can contribute to the workforce while their permanent residency is processed.
Success in this journey hinges on submitting a well-documented, truthful application, following the IRCC’s current guidelines, and maintaining open communication with immigration authorities. Once in Canada, foreign spouses have ample opportunity to work in various industries, gain Canadian work experience, and eventually transition to full permanent residency status if not already granted.
Canada’s core immigration values—family unity, economic integration, and multiculturalism—ensure that newcomers feel welcomed and supported. With the right preparation and verified information, marrying a Canadian and obtaining a Dependant Visa can be the beginning of a meaningful and successful life in Canada.
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