Employment for Spouses of International Medical Graduates

This information is specifically for spouses of International Medical Graduates.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada makes it easier for spouses or partners of International Medical Graduates to also work in Canada - spouses may be authorized to work without first having a confirmed job offer. Spouses who have declared their intention to work can apply for an “open” work permit at the same time they apply for entry to Canada. Alternatively, spouses who accompany the physician to Canada first as visitors but who later decide, once in Canada, to seek employment, may apply to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta for a work permit. You can apply for a job-specific permit if you have a job offer, or for an open permit if you so choose.

For spouses educated outside of Canada, the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) helps you to obtain recognition for the education you have. The Assessment Service issues educational certificates that indicate how the level of educational credentials received in another country compares to a similar educational program in Canada. The certificates may help immigrants enter the labour market, gain membership in professional licensing organizations and admission into post-secondary institutions. A list of professional licensing associations and educational institutions who recognize International Qualifications Assessment Service assessments is available from their office.

Spouses from outside Alberta should look into their professional equivalencies, and contact the professional association or licensing body for their profession soon after their arrival. There may be important timeframes involved for transferring your memberships or licenses. Government of Canada websites have information on jobs, workers, training and careers, with specific information for newcomers and non-Canadians.