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Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)

SAAB Immigration Services Inc. | Immigration Experts for Canada   →  Visa   →  Work in Canada   →  Open work Permits   →  Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) | SAAB Immigration Services, RCIC R536007

Spousal Open Work Permit

What this page covers

The rules on spousal and family open work permits narrowed in January 2025 and again since. Check the current position before anyone plans around being able to work.

A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows spouses or common-law partners of international students and skilled workers to work in Canada. This permit is designed to promote family unity and provide support to the primary permit holder.

Not Certain Whether You Qualify Under the Current Spousal Open Work Permit Rules?

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Key Information

  • Eligibility
    Available to spouses of international students enrolled full-time at certain programs at a designated learning institution (DLI) and skilled workers in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.
  • Validity
    The SOWP is typically valid for the same duration as the primary permit holder’s permit.

Eligibility Criteria For Spouses/Common-Law partners of Skilled Workers starting January 21, 2025:

The primary applicant must hold a valid work permit in one of the following occupations:​

  • TEER 0 or 1 Occupations: All high-skilled occupations under these categories.​

  • Select TEER 2 Occupations: Including, but not limited to, chemical technologists, biological technologists, and agricultural inspectors.​

  • Select TEER 3 Occupations: Including, but not limited to, opticians, licensed practical nurses, and paramedical occupations.

For a comprehensive list of eligible occupations, click here.​

Eligibility Criteria for Spouses/Common-Law partners of International Students starting January 21, 2025:

Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if you have a valid study permit and are:

  • Studying in a master’s degree program of 16 months or longer.​canada.ca

    • Studying in a doctoral degree program.​

    • Participating in an eligible program, such as:​

      • Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) (Outside of Quebec), From August 26, 2024.

      • Le projet de reconnaissance des compétences d’infirmières et d’infirmiers recrutés à l’international (Quebec), From April 30, 2024.

  • Studying in one of the following professional degree programs at a university:​canada.ca

    • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)

    • Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)

    • Doctor of Medicine (MD)

    • Doctor of Optometry (OD)

    • Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)

    • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)

    • Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)

    • Bachelor of Nursing (BN)

    • Bachelor of Education (BEd)

    • Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)

Eligibility Criteria for Spouses/Common-Law partners of International Students who applied for an open work permit before March 19, 2024:
  • You have a valid study permit.
  • You’re eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
  • You’re a full-time student at one of the following types of schools:
      • A public post-secondary school, such as a college or university, or CEGEP in Quebec.
      • A private college-level school in Quebec.
      • A Canadian private school that can legally award degrees under provincial law (e.g., a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree).
      • An educational institution offering vocational training in Quebec.
Eligibility Criteria: If your spouse or common-law partner is applying to extend their existing open work permit under this stream, you may be eligible if
  • You have a valid study permit.
  • You’re eligible for a PGWP.
  • You’re a full-time student at one of these types of schools:
      • A public post-secondary school, such as a college or university, or a CEGEP in Quebec.
      • A private college-level school in Quebec.
      • A Canadian private school that can legally award degrees under provincial law (e.g., a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree).
      • An educational institution offering vocational training in Quebec.

How Do You Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit?

Important Considerations

Maintained Status

Ensure you maintain your status in Canada by applying for the SOWP before your current permit expires.

Work Flexibility

SOWP holders can work for any employer in Canada.

Extensions

If the primary permit holder extends their study or work permit, the SOWP can also be extended.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the new policy starting April 30, 2024, affect SOWP applications?
Spouses of students in master’s or doctoral programs, certain professional degree programs, or eligible pilot programs are eligible for an SOWP.
Can my spouse apply for a SOWP if I am a part-time student?
No, the primary applicant must be enrolled as a full-time student at a DLI.
How long is the Spousal Open Work Permit valid?
It is typically valid for the same duration as the primary permit holder's study or work permit.
What are the application requirements for a Spousal Open Work Permit?
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, proof of common-law), proof of the primary permit holder's status in Canada, and other supporting documents as required.
Can my spouse apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit from outside Canada?
Yes, they can apply from outside or inside Canada, provided they meet all eligibility criteria and have the necessary documentation.
What happens if the primary permit holder's status changes?
The Spousal Open Work Permit may be affected if the primary permit holder’s status changes or expires. It’s essential to keep track of the primary permit holder’s permit validity, and if the situation changes, update IRCC via webforms and apply for extensions if necessary.
Is there a limit on how many times my spouse can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit?
There is no set limit on the number of times one can apply, but the validity is generally tied to the primary permit holder’s status. Continuous eligibility needs to be maintained.

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