Spousal Open Work Permit
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows spouses or common-law partners of certain temporary foreign workers and international students to work for any employer in Canada.
Our specialized services streamline the application process, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome. Begin your professional journey in Canada with confidence while we manage the complexities of the SOWP application. Contact us today to get started!
Spousal Open work Permit Eligibility
Effective January 21, 2025, the Government of Canada has implemented significant changes to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) for spouses of international students and foreign workers. Canada
For Spouses of International Students:
Spouses or common-law partners may now apply for an open work permit only if the international student is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- Master’s programs that are 16 months or longer
- Doctoral programs
- Select professional degree programs, including:
- 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, BNSc)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
The international student must provide proof of enrollment in one of these eligible programs.
For Spouses of Foreign Workers:
Spouses or common-law partners may apply for an open work permit if the foreign worker:
- Is employed in a Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) 0 or 1 occupation, or
- Is employed in select TEER 2 or 3 occupations within sectors experiencing labor shortages or aligned with government priorities, such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Natural resources
- Education
- Sports
- Military sectors
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time the spouse applies for the open work permit. Canada
Additional Changes:
- Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for family open work permits.
- Open work permits issued under previous criteria will remain valid until their expiration.
- Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence are not affected by these changes.
These measures are part of Canada’s efforts to strengthen the integrity of its temporary residence programs and address labor market needs.
For Spouses of Foreign Workers:
Spouses or common-law partners may apply for an open work permit if the foreign worker:
- Is employed in a Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) 0 or 1 occupation, or
- Is employed in select TEER 2 or 3 occupations within sectors experiencing labor shortages or aligned with government priorities, such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Natural resources
- Education
- Sports
- Military sectors
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time the spouse applies for the open work permit.
Additional Changes:
- Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for family open work permits.
- Open work permits issued under previous criteria will remain valid until their expiration.
- Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence are not affected by these changes.
These measures are part of Canada’s efforts to strengthen the integrity of its temporary residence programs and address labor market needs.
Why Choose Our Services?
Our knowledgeable team provides expert advice on the spousal open work permit application process, ensuring you understand all requirements and eligibility criteria.
We offer end-to-end support, from gathering necessary documentation to completing and submitting your application, ensuring a seamless experience.
Stay informed with the latest updates on immigration policies and procedures, ensuring your application is accurate and current with Canadian regulations.
Our goal is to maximize your chances of obtaining a spousal open work permit, providing you with the best possible opportunity to join your spouse in Canada.
Key Services Offered
We evaluate your eligibility for a spousal open work permit based on your spouse’s status in Canada, ensuring you meet all necessary criteria and prerequisites.
Our team helps you gather and organize essential supporting documents, including proof of relationship and financial stability, ensuring a complete and accurate application.
We thoroughly review your application to correct any errors, boosting approval chances. We also guide you through submission, ensuring accurate filing and timely completion.
Receive expert coaching and practice sessions to prepare you for visa interviews, boosting your confidence and readiness.
Stay informed with regular updates on the progress of your application, providing peace of mind and timely information throughout the process.
Key Benefits
Receive personalized consultations that address the specific requirements for obtaining a spousal open work permit in Canada, ensuring a customized approach for your unique situation.
We guide you through each step of the spousal open work permit application, from initial preparation to final submission, making the process straightforward and manageable.
Our dedicated team of experts is here to provide continuous support and answer any questions you may have, helping you and your spouse navigate the application process with confidence.
