Navigating Spousal Open Work Permits in Canada

If you’re the spouse or common-law partner of a foreign worker in Canada, you might be able to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). But eligibility depends on your and your partner’s situation.

Here’s a quick breakdown of who might qualify. If your spouse:

• Has applied for Permanent Residency (PR) through an eligible program and holds a valid work permit for at least six months, you're in luck!
• If your partner is a low-skilled worker (in TEER 4 or 5 jobs) on a PR pathway, you may also be eligible, provided their work authority is valid for six months.
• High-skilled workers (TEER 0 or 1) can help you qualify too, as long as their work permit is valid for at least 16 months!

To get rolling, your spouse must live in Canada and you need valid temporary resident status yourself. Be prepared to show you’ll leave Canada once your permit expires, and that you’ve got enough funds to support yourself while here.

Of course, restrictions apply. For instance, if your partner is a student or has made a refugee claim, this might affect your eligibility.

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