Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) for International Students and Foreign Workers

A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or common-law partner of an international student or foreign worker to work for any employer in Canada. This flexible permit helps families stay together while supporting their financial needs. As of January 21, 2025, eligibility requirements have been updated for family members of international students and workers.

SOWP for International Students

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a SOWP as the spouse or common-law partner of an international student, the student must be enrolled in one of the following:

• A master’s or doctoral degree program of 16 months or longer at a recognized institution

• One of the following professional degree programs at a university:

         - Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)

         - Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)

         - Doctor of Medicine (MD)

         - Doctor of Optometry (OD)

         - Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)

         - Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

         - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)

         - Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)

         - Bachelor of Nursing (BN)

         - Bachelor of Education (BEd)

         - Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)

• A program specifically designed for Francophone and healthcare professionals

Work Permit Duration

In most cases, a SOWP will be valid for the same duration as the international student’s study permit. If the study permit is expiring and the student is transitioning to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), the spouse or common-law partner may need to apply for a new work permit.

SOWP for Foreign Workers

A SOWP is available to spouses and common-law partners of foreign workers in Canada.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, the foreign worker must:

• Be employed in Canada in a high-skilled occupation (TEER 0 or 1) or a selected high-skilled occupation in TEER 2 and 3.

• Hold a valid work permit or have an approved work permit, including:

  • Employer-specific permits

  • Open work permits under a non-family category

  • Work permits obtained through an economic class permanent residence program or pilot.

• Have a work permit valid for at least six months beyond the date of the SOWP application.

• Be living and working in Canada (or planning to do so).

Eligibility for Family Members Applying for a SOWP

To be eligible, the family member must:

• Meet the general work permit requirements.

• Be in a genuine relationship with the principal applicant.

• Fall into one of these categories:

  • Spouse or common-law partner

  • Dependent child of the foreign worker or their spouse

  • Dependent child of a dependent child (grandchild)

Status Requirements for Family Members in Canada

Family members applying for a SOWP while in Canada must:

• Have valid temporary resident status

• Have maintained status

• Be eligible for restoration of status (visitor, worker, or student)

Understanding these eligibility criteria can help international students and foreign workers navigate the process of applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada. Staying informed about the latest updates ensures a smoother application process and a better experience for families planning their future in Canada.