Spousal Open Work Permit
The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is intended for the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is being sponsored for permanent residency under the Family Class category of Spousal sponsorship. This permit allows them to work in Canada while waiting for a decision on their sponsorship application, which can take up to 12 months.
In addition to spouses or common-law partners of sponsors, SOWP may also be available to spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers and students in Canada.
One of the key benefits of the Spousal Open Work Permit is its flexibility. It is not tied to a specific employer or job, allowing the holder to work for almost any Canadian employer without needing a confirmed job offer or employment.
Obtaining a Canadian Open Work Permit for a spouse enables them to live and work alongside their partner in Canada during the processing of their sponsorship application for permanent residency. SOWP permits are typically valid for up to 2 years, unless the applicant’s passport expires sooner.
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Process :
Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) in Canada can be done conveniently online. Unlike some other visa categories, there is no requirement for the applicant to provide an IELTS score. Once the open work permit is approved, the holder of the SOWP is permitted to work full-time and reside with their spouse for the duration of the permit’s validity.
In cases where the status of the applicant’s spouse or common-law partner is extended, the Open Work Permit for Spouse in Canada may also be extended accordingly.
The Canadian Spousal Open Work Permit offers significant financial benefits to the couple and allows them to make an economic contribution to Canada while being together.
Canada is renowned for its efforts in reuniting families through various means, and the SOWP is just one of the many ways it achieves this goal.
Supporting Documents for SOWP Application :
When completing a work permit application for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), it’s important to select “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit and refrain from providing any information under the employer section.
If the spouse of the SOWP applicant holds a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), the SOWP application must include a copy of their work permit, along with their current employment letter confirming their employment in a NOC 0, A, or B skilled position. Additionally, copies of pay slips should be enclosed.
Upon a successful work permit application, the foreign national will receive an open work permit allowing them to work for multiple employers in any location within Canada while their permanent residency application is being processed. The application procedure for the Spousal Sponsorship Open Work Permit may vary depending on the applicant’s status in Canada and the stage of their permanent residency application.
It’s crucial to note that foreign nationals are not permitted to work in Canada without the appropriate authorization. Engaging in any form of employment in Canada without the proper work permit is unlawful and can jeopardize future immigration applications.