The applicant should review the work permit application guide to determine the necessary forms and instructions for completion.
If your spouse is presently employed or enrolled in studies in Canada, or if you've applied to be sponsored for permanent residency by your spouse or partner in Canada, you could qualify for an open work permit.
The Spouse Open Work Permit Canada (SOWP) is a special type of work permit issued to individuals with spouses in Canada. Foreign nationals (principal applicants) in Canada may fall into one of three categories:
The “open” nature of the spousal open work permit in Canada means the holder can work for any employer in the country. The validity length of their work permit typically coincides with the validity date of their spouses’ work permit or study permit.
To qualify for a spousal sponsorship open work permit, you must have applied for permanent residency sponsorship from within Canada through the in-Canada stream of the spousal sponsorship program.
Here’s what you need to know based on your application status:
It’s important to note that approval in principle (AIP) indicates that your permanent residence application has met the eligibility requirements, but it hasn’t completed processing for medical exams and security/background checks. While this is a significant step, permanent residency may still be denied after receiving AIP.
Additionally, you must have valid status in Canada (visitor, student, worker, etc.) to submit a work permit application alongside your permanent residence application. If you’re out of status, you must wait until your permanent residence application receives AIP to submit your work permit application.
To qualify for the SOWP Canada, prospective applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
Individuals planning to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit must compile and provide the following documents:
The application process for a spousal open work permit involves the following steps:
The applicant should review the work permit application guide to determine the necessary forms and instructions for completion.
Ensure all necessary documents are gathered for the application and scan them to create digital copies.
Create a secure account on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) online portal. Fill out the forms online, referring to the application guide as needed. Sign and date the forms upon completion.
Pay the application processing fee and submit the application and accompanying documents online.
Wait for the application to be processed, with processing times varying based on application volume and permit type. Additional information or an interview may be requested during this period.
Once processed, the applicant will receive a decision on their spousal open work permit application. If approved, a work permit will be issued, granting authorization to work in Canada while awaiting permanent residency processing.
Applicants for a spousal open work permit are required to pay a total fee of $340 for their application processing. This amount includes the following components:
Please be aware that fees are subject to change, and it is advisable to consult the official Government of Canada website for the latest updates on SOWP application fees.
The duration of a spousal open work permit is contingent upon several factors, primarily determined by the expiration date of the foreign national’s study permit or work permit.
If the foreign national’s study permit or work permit is due to expire within the next three months, the spouse’s open work permit will also expire after three months. Should the foreign national extend their study permit or work permit, the spouse will be required to apply for a new open work permit accordingly.
The duration of a spousal open work permit is contingent upon several factors, primarily determined by the expiration date of the foreign national’s study permit or work permit.
If the foreign national’s study permit or work permit is due to expire within the next three months, the spouse’s open work permit will also expire after three months. Should the foreign national extend their study permit or work permit, the spouse will be required to apply for a new open work permit accordingly.
Obtaining a spousal open work permit can offer several significant advantages for individuals looking to work in Canada alongside their spouse. Let’s explore these benefits:
In essence, the spousal open work permit serves as a valuable tool for couples seeking to work and build a life together in Canada, offering flexibility, stability, and opportunities for long-term residency and mutual support.
Obtaining a spousal open work permit can offer several significant advantages for individuals looking to work in Canada alongside their spouse. Let’s explore these benefits:
In essence, the spousal open work permit serves as a valuable tool for couples seeking to work and build a life together in Canada, offering flexibility, stability, and opportunities for long-term residency and mutual support.
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