New Canadian Rules for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) – What You Need ...


📢 Canada’s immigration rules have changed for spouses of foreign workers! If your spouse is working in Canada under a temporary work permit, they may no longer automatically qualify for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). Instead, eligibility now depends on your spouse’s occupation.

What’s Changed?

As of January 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that only spouses of foreign workers in select occupations can apply for an open work permit. The eligible categories are:

✅ TEER 0 (e.g., senior management, medical professionals)
✅ TEER 1 (e.g., engineers, financial analysts, software developers)
✅ Select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations (list below)

💡 Your spouse’s work permit must also have at least 16 months remaining at the time of your SOWP application.

Before this change, spouses of all foreign workers were eligible for an SOWP regardless of job classification. This restriction is part of Canada’s strategy to reduce temporary resident numbers and prioritize high-demand industries.

TEER 2 & TEER 3 Jobs That Still Qualify for SOWPs

🛠 TEER 2 - Technical Occupations

  • Engineering & Tech: Electrical, mechanical, civil, and industrial engineering technologists
  • Health Professionals: Licensed practical nurses, paramedics, dental technologists
  • Trades & Transport: Heavy equipment mechanics, power system electricians, air traffic controllers

🏥 TEER 3 - Health & Education Support

  • Healthcare: Nurse aides, dental assistants, medical lab assistants
  • Education: Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
  • Trades: Plumbers, welders, roofers, painters, transport truck drivers

See the full list of eligible TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations in our detailed guide.

How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit

1️⃣ Check Eligibility – Confirm your spouse’s occupation is in TEER 0, 1, or eligible TEER 2/3
2️⃣ Gather Documents – Proof of relationship, proof of your spouse’s job, and proof of remaining work permit validity
3️⃣ Submit Online Application – Log in to your IRCC secure account and follow the prompts
4️⃣ Pay Fees & Submit – Finalize payment and receive confirmation

📝 Important: Applications for SOWPs under previous rules will not be revoked if already approved. Renewals are still possible if eligibility is met.

Why This Change?

Canada’s government is reducing temporary resident numbers and prioritizing high-demand sectors like healthcare and skilled trades. IRCC expects 150,000 fewer SOWPs to be issued in the next three years.

If you’re planning to work in Canada with your spouse, be sure to check these new rules to avoid surprises in your application!

📢 Need help? Stay updated on the latest immigration changes by following us!

#CanadaImmigration #SOWP #WorkInCanada #CanadaVisa #TEER #ImmigrateToCanada

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