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Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP): A Comprehensive Guide

Aderayo Olabisi Adepoju

16 December 2024 | Last updated 16 December 2024

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Canada’s Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is a cornerstone of the country’s family reunification and immigration strategy. Designed to allow spouses or common-law partners of certain temporary residents to work while staying in Canada, the SOWP is a vital tool for fostering financial independence and family unity. This guide explores the SOWP in detail, covering what it is, who qualifies, how to apply, and the benefits of this permit based on the latest updates from IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) and Canadian immigration laws."},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"What is a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows spouses or common-law partners of eligible temporary residents to work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer. Unlike employer-specific permits, the SOWP provides flexibility and freedom to explore various employment opportunities, making it a critical support mechanism for immigrant families building their lives in Canada."},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Who is Eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit?"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Eligibility for the SOWP depends on the applicant’s relationship to the principal permit holder and the principal holder’s status in Canada. Here’s a breakdown:"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Spouses or Common-law Partners of Temporary Foreign Workers"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","underline":true},"insert":":"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"The principal worker must have a valid work permit."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Their job must fall under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"      2. "},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Spouses or Common-law Partners of International Students"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","underline":true},"insert":":"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"The principal holder must be enrolled in a full-time program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"     3. "},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Applicants Under the Inland Spousal/Common-law Sponsorship Program"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","underline":true},"insert":":"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Those applying for permanent residency through the "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Spousal Sponsorship Program"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":" while residing in Canada can qualify for a SOWP. This allows them to work while their PR application is processed."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"     4. "},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Spouses of Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Holders"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","underline":true},"insert":":"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"If the principal applicant is on a "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"BOWP"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":", their spouse or partner may also qualify for an open work permit."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"    5. "},{"attributes":{"underline":true,"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Other Criteria"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","underline":true},"insert":":"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"The applicant must demonstrate a genuine relationship with the principal permit holder, which could include providing a marriage certificate or proof of common-law status."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"They must meet general admissibility requirements, such as a valid passport and, if applicable, a medical exam for certain occupations."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Documents Required for a SOWP Application"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Applicants must submit the following:"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"A copy of the principal permit holder’s valid work or study permit."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or common-law declaration)."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"A completed IMM 5710 or IMM 1295 application form."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Proof that the principal applicant meets their work or study eligibility (e.g., job offer letter or enrolment confirmation)."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Payment of the application fees (CAD $255)."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"A copy of a valid passport."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Medical exam results for positions in healthcare, childcare, or other regulated industries."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"How to Apply for a SOWP"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Determine Eligibility"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements outlined above."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"       2. Prepare Your Application"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Gather all required documents, including proof of relationship and your partner’s eligibility."},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"       3. Submit Online"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Applications are submitted via the "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"IRCC online portal"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"."},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"      4. Pay the Fees"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": The total fee for a SOWP is CAD $255 (CAD $155 for the work permit application and CAD $100 for the open work permit holder fee)."},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"     5. Processing Times"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Processing times vary depending on where the application is submitted. You can check IRCC’s website for current estimates."},{"insert":"\n\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Benefits of the Spousal Open Work Permit"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Unrestricted Work Authorization"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": The SOWP allows applicants to work for any employer in Canada without restrictions, enabling financial independence."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Enhanced Family Reunification"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Spouses can live and work together while waiting for permanent residency."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"No Job Offer Needed"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Unlike employer-specific work permits, a job offer is not required to apply for a SOWP."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Pathway to Permanent Residency"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": A SOWP holder can gain Canadian work experience, which may strengthen future PR applications under programs like Express Entry."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Key Updates to Keep in Mind"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Visitor Visa Changes"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": As of August 2024, visitors in Canada are no longer permitted to apply for work permits from within the country. This change highlights the importance of entering Canada under the correct visa category."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":" "},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"Spousal Sponsorship Pathways"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":": Inland sponsorship remains a preferred option for couples living together in Canada, as it allows the sponsored spouse to apply for a SOWP while awaiting PR approval. "},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Why is Now the Time to Apply for a SOWP?"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"As the year comes to a close, it’s an excellent time to secure your Spousal Open Work Permit. Processing times may vary, and applying now ensures you can maintain your legal status in Canada and continue contributing to the economy while waiting for permanent residency."},{"insert":"\n\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Why Choose Shirah for Your Immigration Needs?"},{"insert":"\n\n"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":"Navigating Canada’s complex immigration landscape can be daunting, but with Shirah by your side, you’ll have a trusted partner with over "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"2,500 success stories"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":" and a "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","bold":true},"insert":"95% success rate"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":". Shirah specializes in personalised immigration services, helping you and your spouse achieve your Canadian dreams. Even better, our "},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent","link":"https://www.shirah.co/calculator"},"insert":"Predictive Calculator"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":" will help you get started right away by giving you actionable plans to achieve your relocation goals. Start your Journey for "},{"attributes":{"bold":true,"background":"transparent","link":"https://www.shirah.co/calculator"},"insert":"FREE"},{"attributes":{"background":"transparent"},"insert":" and with confidence!"},{"insert":"\n"}]}

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