Wife has a work permit

[oklagonian]

My fiancee is Philippino and I am American. We will be getting married before she moves to or begins work in Canada. Her contract is for either 4 or 5 years, as yet undecided.
What must I do to be able to join her there on a permanent basis during that time?

 

[scylla]

What job does she have in Canada? Is it NOC skill level A, B or 0? This is what will determine if you qualify to accompany her as a dependent on an open work permit.

 

[oklagonian]

It appears to be a C.
Nurses Aid.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

It appears to be a C.
Nurses Aid.

As her job is unskilled, you will not qualify for a work permit based on her status.

You could enter as a visitor but would not be able to work, not be covered by healthcare etc. You would have to continually extend your visitor status and within a year or two, you could expect a refusal and to be told to leave Canada.

 

[oklagonian]

After two years, she will be going to school there to become a RN. She is only 2 semesters away from that degree.

I am retired and a veteran (if that is relevant ) what are my options?

 

[canuck_in_uk]

After two years, she will be going to school there to become a RN. She is only 2 semesters away from that degree.

I am retired and a veteran (if that is relevant ) what are my options?

Being a veteran is irrelevant.

If you are willing to work, your profession falls under NAFTA and you can find a Canadian employer to offer you a job, you could apply for a work permit.

Other than that, you don't really have any options besides visiting.