Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) – Work in Canada While Supporting Your Partner
If your spouse or common-law partner is studying or working in Canada, you may be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), allowing you to work for any employer in Canada. This is a great opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, contribute financially, and stay with your loved one.
What Is a Spousal Open Work Permit?
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is a type of work permit that allows the spouse or common-law partner of a temporary resident (international student, skilled worker, or certain other eligible applicants) to work for any employer in Canada. Unlike employer-specific work permits, an open work permit does not require a job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Who Can Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit?
1. Spouses of Skilled Workers
You may qualify for a Spousal Open Work Permit if your spouse or common-law partner is employed in Canada as a skilled worker under specific categories:
- TEER 0 or 1 occupations under the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- Essential occupations, including healthcare, construction, agriculture, hospitality, manufacturing, and transportation.
- Your spouse’s work permit must be valid for at least 16 months at the time of application.
2. Spouses of International Students
To qualify, your spouse must be enrolled in:
- A master’s or doctoral program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- An eligible bachelor’s degree program, such as medicine, engineering, nursing, information technology, and education (as per the updated list of recognized programs).
⚠️ Spouses of students in non-eligible programs (such as certain diploma or certificate courses) are not eligible for a SOWP.
3. Spouses Sponsored Under Family Class (Sponsored Spouse SOWP)
- If you are sponsored for permanent residence under the Family Class, you may apply for an open work permit while waiting for PR processing.
4. Spouses Under RCIP (Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program)
- If your spouse is applying through RCIP, you may be eligible for a SOWP while waiting for their case to be processed.
5. AIPP (Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program) Spouses
- If your spouse is working in Canada through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), you may qualify for an open work permit.
6. Spouses Transitioning to Permanent Residence
- If your spouse is in the process of transitioning from a temporary worker/student to a permanent resident, you may still be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit.
7. Proof of Genuine and Continuing Relationship
- Applicants must provide evidence that their relationship with their spouse is genuine and ongoing. Acceptable proof may include marriage certificates, joint bank accounts, lease agreements, and communication records.
How Long Is the Spousal Open Work Permit Valid?
The validity of your Spousal Open Work Permit depends on your spouse’s status in Canada:
- Spouses of international students: The work permit will usually be valid until your spouse’s study permit expires.
- Spouses of skilled workers: The work permit will remain valid as long as your spouse’s work permit is active.
Can I Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit from Inside Canada?
Yes! If you’re already in Canada on a visitor visa, you may be able to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit from within Canada. However, processing times vary, and you must maintain valid status while waiting for approval.
Can I Travel While My SOWP Is in Process?
- If you apply from inside Canada and leave while your application is in progress, you may need a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to re-enter Canada.
- If you apply from outside Canada, your Spousal Open Work Permit will be issued upon approval when you enter Canada.
Why Choose Precious Immigration for Your Spousal Open Work Permit Application?
Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit can be complex due to recent eligibility changes. At Precious Immigration, we simplify the process and help you avoid delays or refusals by:
- Assessing your eligibility based on your spouse’s status (worker, student, PR applicant, etc.).
- Ensuring all required documents are correctly prepared.
- Filing your application correctly to avoid delays.
- Providing guidance on next steps toward permanent residency, if applicable.
Apply for Your Spousal Open Work Permit Now
Let us help you reunite with your spouse and work in Canada stress-free!