Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
If you’re a full-time international student with a valid study permit or a temporary foreign worker holding a valid work permit, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible to apply for an open work permit, provided certain conditions are met. This type of permit allows them to work in Canada without needing a job offer in advance. Here’s an overview of how it works and what you need to know
1. Eligibility for an Open Work Permit:
A spousal relationship could be a legal marriage, common in law partnership or a conjugal partnership between the two people.
-
Spouse or Common-Law Partner:
Your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, which will be valid for the same duration as your study or work permit. -
No Job Offer Required:
Unlike other work permits, this one doesn’t require your spouse or partner to secure a job offer before applying
2. Application Process:
-
After Arrival:
Your spouse or common-law partner can apply for the open work permit after you’ve arrived in Canada. -
Simultaneous Application:
Alternatively, they can apply at the same time you apply for your initial study / work permit if you're outside Canada.
3. Benefits of the Open Work Permit:
-
Freedom to Work:
This permit allows your spouse or common-law partner to work for any employer across Canada. -
Gain Valuable Experience
They can gain Canadian work experience, integrate with the community, and earn additional income. In some cases, this experience may also make them eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
4. Education for Minor Children:
-
Study Permit :
If you have minor children, they can study in Canada without needing a study permit. This applies to preschool, primary, and secondary levels of education.
5. Additional Information:
-
Permit Duration:
The open work permit will be valid for the same length of time as your study or work permit. -
Children’s Education:
Children accompanying you can attend preschool, primary, and secondary education in Canada without needing their own study permit.
Navigating Canadian immigration can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact ArcticTern’s licensed immigration consultants to help you make your immigration goals a reality.
Speak With Our Experts Today!
-
Head Office
116 Wilhelmina Place, Manotick, ON, Canada, K4M OB4. - info@arcticternconsulting.ca
-
Branch Office Colombo
Hatch Works
14 Sir Baron Jayatilaka Mw, Colombo 01. - info@arcticternconsulting.ca
- (+94) 766 412 979