Does the fact that my spouse is unemployed create an obstacle for me to apply for a work permit or for permanent residence?
no. The applicant’s experience is the primary concern. In general, if you succeed in getting a work permit then your spouse will be eligible to apply for an open work permit which allows him/her to work for any employer in Canada without having to go through the LMIA process. Getting the open work permit will not depend on your spouse being currently employed.