by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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Spouse Open Work Permit Canada: Work Legally While Joining Your Partner
Are you looking to join your spouse in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience? A spouse open work permit (SOWP) offers foreign spouses or common-law partners of certain Canadian residents or workers the opportunity to work for almost any employer across Canada.
Open work permits help families stay together while building their future in Canada. The flexibility to work for various employers gives applicants the chance to integrate into the Canadian workforce quickly.
What is a SOWP?
An open work permit allows eligible spouses or common-law partners to work in Canada without requiring a specific job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Unlike employer-specific permits, open work permits provide the flexibility to work for nearly any employer, in almost any occupation, across Canada.
Who is Eligible for a Spouse Open Work Permit?
You may be eligible for a SOWP if you are the spouse or common-law partner of:
- A foreign worker holding a valid Canadian work permit for a high-skilled job (TEER 0 and 1, select occupations in TEER 2 and 3)
- An international student with a valid Canadian study permit
- A Canadian citizen or permanent resident with an inland spousal sponsorship application submitted
- An applicant under the Atlantic Immigration Program
- An individual who has applied for Canadian permanent residency
To learn more about family reunification, visit our Family Sponsorship page.
Bring Your Partner to Canada with Confidence
Zohil-Morton Law provides experienced, step-by-step support for your SOWP application. We help ensure your documents are accurate, complete, and fully aligned with IRCC requirements. Whether applying from abroad or within Canada, our legal team is here to guide you.
Contact us today to get started with your application.
Stay Informed
To stay updated on immigration programs and receive the latest Canadian immigration news, border requirements, and IRCC policy updates, follow us on social media:
We are here to keep you informed and empowered throughout your Canadian immigration journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spouse Open Work Permits (SOWP)
Can I apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit from outside Canada?
How long does it take to process a Spouse Open Work Permit?
Do I need a job offer to get a Spouse Open Work Permit?
STAY IN THE LOOP
