October 4, 2025
Who is Eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) in Canada?
Are you working in Canada and wondering if your spouse or common-law partner can join you and work legally? The answer may be yes—through the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).
A SOWP allows the spouse or partner of a foreign worker in Canada to obtain an open work permit, meaning they can work for almost any employer, in any industry, without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a job offer in advance.
At Career Wings Immigration, we regularly help families reunite and thrive in Canada by guiding them through the spousal open work permit process. Below, we break down who qualifies for a SOWP, key eligibility requirements, and important tips to strengthen your application.
Who Can Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada?
Eligibility for a spousal open work permit depends on the type of work permit the principal foreign worker holds and their immigration pathway. Here are the main categories:
1. Spouses of Foreign Workers Who Have Applied for Permanent Residency (PR)
If your spouse has submitted a PR application under an eligible immigration program, you may qualify for an open work permit.
Requirements:
• The foreign worker must hold a valid employer-specific work permit or another type of open work permit (not spousal OWP).
• The work permit must be valid for at least 6 months.
• The PR application must be under an eligible pathway, such as:
- Express Entry (CEC, FSWP, FSTP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Quebec Skilled Worker / CSQ holders
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
- Start-up Visa Program
If your spouse has applied for PR and is working in Canada, you may apply for a spousal open work permit to legally work while their application is processed.
2. Spouses of Low-Skilled (TEER 4 or 5) Workers on a PR Pathway
If your spouse works in a TEER 4 or TEER 5 job under Canada’s NOC system and has a work permit through an eligible PR program, you may qualify.
Conditions:
• The foreign worker must have valid authorization to work for at least 6 months.
• They must be on a recognized pathway to PR, such as PNP, AIP, or Agri-Food Pilot.
3. Spouses of High-Skilled Workers (TEER 0 or 1)
Spouses of workers in management (TEER 0) or professional (TEER 1) occupations are also eligible for a SOWP.
Requirements:
• The foreign worker must hold (or have approval for) a valid work permit.
• The permit must be valid for at least 16 months at the time of application.
• The worker must either be living in Canada or plan to reside here.
4. Spouses of Skilled Workers in TEER 2 or 3 Occupations
Spouses of foreign workers in certain technical jobs (TEER 2) or skilled trades (TEER 3) may also apply.
Conditions:
• The job must appear on Canada’s eligible TEER 2 and 3 occupation list.
• The foreign worker’s permit must be valid for at least 16 months.
5. Spouses of Foreign Workers Under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
Certain international trade agreements—such as CETA, CPTPP, or the Canada–Korea FTA—allow spouses of foreign workers to obtain an open work permit. Eligibility depends on the specific agreement.
Who is Not Eligible for a SOWP in Canada?
Spouses are generally not eligible if the foreign worker:
• Has a pending refugee claim.
• Is subject to a removal order.
• Is an international student without a PGWP.
• Holds a spousal open work permit themselves.
General Requirements for Spousal Open Work Permit Applicants
No matter which category applies, the spouse or common-law partner must:
• Hold or restore valid temporary resident status.
• Prove they will leave Canada after their permit expires.
• Show sufficient financial resources to support themselves and dependents.
• Have no criminal record (police clearance may be required).
• Be in good health (medical exam may be requested).
• Not work for employers on the IRCC ineligible employer list.
• Not work in restricted industries (e.g., strip clubs, escort services, erotic massage).
Who Qualifies as a Spouse or Common-Law Partner?
• Spouse: Legally married (in Canada or abroad).
• Common-law partner: Lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months.
Why Choose Career Wings Immigration?
At Career Wings Immigration, we understand how important it is for families to stay together. Our expert team helps you:
• Check your eligibility for a spousal open work permit.
• Prepare strong documentation and proof of relationship.
• Avoid errors that cause delays or refusals.
We proudly assist families across Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and all of Canada with personalized, professional immigration guidance.
Contact Career Wings Immigration Today
Call / WhatsApp: +1-778-881-6000
Website: www.careerwingsimmigration.com
Email: info@careerwingsimmigration.com
Instagram: @careerwingsimmigration
Final Thoughts: A spousal open work permit (SOWP) is one of the best ways for couples to live and work together in Canada. If you or your spouse are eligible, don’t take chances with your future—let Career Wings Immigration help you submit a strong, successful application.