Learn about the most recent modifications to Canada’s policy on Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs). Find out about important updates, the application procedure, and new qualifying requirements.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revised the requirements for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) as of January 21, 2025. Spouses of foreign workers and students are impacted by these changes.

Qualifications for International Students’ Spouses:

If the foreign student is enrolled in any of the following programs, spouses may apply for an open work permit:

1. Master’s degree programs spanning at least 16 months
2. Doctoral programs (PhD)
3. A few professional programs, such as:
4. Dental surgeon
5. Pharmacy degrees (B. Pharmacy, PharmD)
6. Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
7. Veterinary medicine doctor (DVM)
8. Physician (MD)
9. Nursing Bachelor’s Degree (BN)
10. Engineering bachelor’s degree (BEng)
11. Optometry doctor (OD)
12. Education Bachelor (B.Ed.)

During a student’s study period in Canada, several programs allow spouses to work full-time.

Eligibility for Foreign Workers’ Spouses:

An open work permit may be available to spouses if the foreign employee works for:

• Jobs with a TEER of zero or one
• Choose TEER 2 or 3 professions that are in line with government priorities or in industries where there is a labour shortage, like:
  • The sciences of nature and application
  • Building
  • Medical Care
  • Resources found in nature
  • Learning
  • The military and sports industries

Furthermore, when the spouse files for the open work permit, the foreign worker must still have at least 16 months left on their work permit.

How to Apply:

It is advised that international students apply for their spouse’s open work permit at the same time as they do for their own study permit. By ensuring that both applications are evaluated jointly, this method may cut down on delays. The spouse of the student may apply for an open work permit from their home country if the student is already in Canada.

Extensions & Things to Think About After Graduation:

A spouse’s open work permit may be renewed to reflect the new period if a student’s study permit is extended. The spouse might not be qualified for an extension, though, if the student is in their last semester. Students can work in Canada for up to three years after graduation by applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). In certain situations, the graduate’s job in particular TEER categories determines the spouse’s eligibility for an open work permit.

Other Choices:

Spouses who are not enrolled in approved programs may want to apply separately for a visitor visa or study permit, as long as they can prove they have enough money. Spouses may also look into alternative work permit options that Canada’s immigration system offers and for which they are eligible.

The goal of these policy adjustments is to strike a balance between family opportunities and the demands of the Canadian labour market. Before applying, candidates should carefully check the current requirements to make sure they qualify.