Getting Work as a Spouse of Student?

Hi There,

My husband and I are hoping to move to Vancouver in September as he has been accepted to study for his PHd at UBC. As he'll be a student, he'll have a student visa and be able to work on campus, however we're worried about my ability to get a job there.

How difficult will it be for me to get a work permit once I'm there? I've read that I won't have to have my potential employer fill out the special HR form (I think it's LMO?) if I am offered a job since I am a student's spouse, is that correct?

Will I get a temporary permit and then apply for a skilled permit later? In general I've heard it's very difficult for a non-Canadian to get a job in Canada other then waiting tables, is there any truth to this?

I have a college degree and will have just over two years experience working full-time in the non-profit sector when we would move if that makes a difference.

Thanks for any input!