Loading...
Family Immigration Services
Spousal Open Work Permit Canada 2026
Complete guide to the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) for partners of PGWP holders, skilled workers, and graduate students. Learn about 2026 eligibility requirements, new IRCC rules, application process, and processing times.
Processing Time
90-120 days
Application Fee
$340 CAD
Work Freedom
Any Employer
LMIA
Not Required
What is SOWP?
What is a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is a special type of work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows the spouse or common-law partner of certain temporary residents to work in Canada without requiring a specific job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Unlike employer-specific work permits, a SOWP provides complete flexibility to work for any Canadian employer, in any occupation, and in any location across Canada. This makes it an attractive option for couples where one partner is already working or studying in Canada.
The SOWP program supports family unity and allows both partners to contribute financially while building Canadian work experience that can count toward permanent residence applications through programs like Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).
As of 2026, significant policy changes have affected SOWP eligibility, particularly for spouses of international students. It's crucial to understand the current requirements before applying.
Key Benefits of SOWP
- Work for any Canadian employer without LMIA
- Change employers freely without applying for new permit
- Work in any occupation or location in Canada
- Gain Canadian work experience toward PR
- Access to provincial health coverage in most provinces
- Opportunity to build professional network in Canada
Free SOWP Eligibility Assessment
Not sure if you qualify for a Spousal Open Work Permit? Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your situation and guide you through the application process.
Book Free ConsultationGet Document ChecklistRCIC License: R515110
Important: 2026 SOWP Policy Updates
IRCC has introduced significant changes to spousal open work permit eligibility. Review these updates carefully before applying.
Student Spouse Restrictions (2024+)
Only spouses of graduate-level students (Masters, PhD) or specific professional programs can apply for SOWP
Impact: High - Significantly reduces eligibilityNOC TEER Requirements for PGWP Holders
PGWP holder must be employed in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation to sponsor spouse
Impact: Medium - Requires skilled employmentEmployment Verification
IRCC now requires proof of active employment with pay stubs and employer letter
Impact: Medium - Additional documentation requiredExtended Processing Times
Processing times increased by 30-60 days for most applications
Impact: Medium - Plan application timing accordingly2026 Requirements
Who is Eligible for SOWP in 2026?
Spousal open work permit eligibility depends on your spouse's status in Canada. Review the updated 2026 requirements below.
2026 Policy Updates
As of 2024, IRCC introduced significant restrictions on spousal open work permits for international student spouses. Only spouses of graduate-level students (Masters, PhD) and specific professional programs remain eligible.
Valid Relationship
You must be legally married or in a common-law relationship (living together for at least 12 consecutive months) with proof of genuine relationship.
Spouse's Status
Your spouse must hold a valid study permit, work permit, or PGWP and meet specific criteria based on their program or occupation.
Inside or Outside Canada
You can apply from inside Canada (if you have legal status) or from outside Canada. Requirements and processing times vary by location.
Eligibility Categories
SOWP Eligibility by Spouse Category
Your eligibility depends on your spouse's status and occupation in Canada.
Spouse of PGWP Holder
Active480 monthly searches
Requirements:
- Your spouse holds a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit
- Your spouse is employed in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation
- You are legally married or in a common-law relationship
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, joint documents)
Spouse of Skilled Worker (NOC TEER 0-3)
Active320 monthly searches
Requirements:
- Your spouse holds a valid work permit for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
- Work permit must be valid for at least 6 months
- You are legally married or in a common-law relationship
- Valid passport
- Proof of relationship and spouse's employment
Spouse of International Student
Restricted (2024+ Changes)260 monthly searches
Requirements:
- Your spouse is enrolled full-time at a DLI in a degree program
- Must be graduate-level program (Masters/PhD) OR
- Eligible professional degree program
- You are legally married or in a common-law relationship
- Valid passport
- Proof of spouse's enrollment and your relationship
PGWP Spouses
Spousal Open Work Permit for PGWP Holders
If your spouse holds a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you may be eligible for a spousal open work permit. However, recent policy changes require your spouse to be employed in a skilled occupation.
Employment Requirement
Your spouse must be actively employed in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation. Unemployment or work in NOC TEER 4 or 5 occupations does not qualify.
Proof of Employment
You must provide an employment letter from your spouse's employer stating job title, NOC code, duties, salary, and employment start date, along with recent pay stubs.
Valid PGWP
Your spouse's PGWP must be valid throughout your SOWP application process and should have sufficient remaining validity.
NOC TEER Skill Levels Explained
TEER 0: Management
Legislative and senior management occupations (e.g., CEOs, government managers)
TEER 1: Professional
University degree required (e.g., doctors, engineers, IT professionals)
TEER 2: Technical
2-3 years post-secondary or apprenticeship (e.g., technicians, chefs)
TEER 3: Skilled Support
2 years post-secondary or apprenticeship (e.g., dental assistants, bakers)
TEER 4 & 5: Not Eligible
Employment in TEER 4 (high school/job training) or TEER 5 (short demonstration) does not qualify for spousal open work permit sponsorship.
Step by Step
How to Apply for Spousal Open Work Permit
Follow these steps to submit a complete SOWP application to IRCC.
1
Verify Eligibility
Confirm your spouse meets the requirements (PGWP holder with skilled job, skilled worker NOC TEER 0-3, or graduate student). Verify your relationship status and gather proof documents.
2
Create IRCC Account
Create or log into your IRCC secure account. Navigate to "Apply to come to Canada" and select "Work Permit" then "Open Work Permit - Spouse or Common-law Partner".
3
Complete Application Forms
Fill out IMM 5710 (Work Permit Application), IMM 5707 (Family Information), and IMM 5409 (Common-law Union Declaration if applicable). Use the IRCC portal for online submission.
4
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all required documents: passport, marriage certificate, spouse's work/study permit, proof of employment/enrollment, relationship evidence, and photos meeting IRCC specifications.
5
Pay Fees and Submit Biometrics
Pay the $255 CAD work permit fee and $85 CAD biometrics fee online. Schedule and attend biometrics appointment at a VAC within 30 days of submission.
6
Submit Application
Review all information for accuracy, upload documents in the correct format (PDF), and submit your application. Save your confirmation number and application receipt.
7
Track Application Status
Monitor your application status through your IRCC account. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documents. Processing times vary by location.
Documentation
Required Documents for SOWP Application
Complete document checklists for applications inside and outside Canada.
Applying from Inside Canada
- Valid passport (all pages)
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship
- IMM 5710 (Application for Work Permit)
- IMM 5707 (Family Information Form)
- IMM 5409 (Common-law Union Declaration, if applicable)
- Digital photos meeting IRCC specifications
- Spouse's valid work permit, study permit, or PGWP
- Spouse's employment letter (if applicable)
- Spouse's enrollment letter from DLI (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship (joint bank accounts, lease, photos)
- Proof of cohabitation (utility bills, joint documents)
- Biometrics receipt
Applying from Outside Canada
- Valid passport (all pages)
- Marriage certificate (translated if not in English/French)
- IMM 5710 (Application for Work Permit)
- IMM 5707 (Family Information Form)
- IMM 5409 (Common-law Union Declaration, if applicable)
- Digital photos meeting IRCC specifications
- Copy of spouse's work permit, study permit, or PGWP
- Spouse's employment letter with NOC code
- Spouse's enrollment letter from DLI (if student)
- Proof of genuine relationship (photos, chat logs, correspondence)
- Police clearance certificate (if requested)
- Medical examination (if required)
- Biometrics receipt
- Proof of financial support
Processing Times
IRCC SOWP Processing Times 2026
Processing times vary significantly by application location. Plan accordingly.
| Application Location | Processing Time | Notes | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside Canada | 90-120 days | For applicants already in Canada with valid status | Stable |
| Outside Canada (most countries) | 60-180 days | Varies significantly by country of application | Variable |
| India | 120-180 days | Higher volume applications | Slower |
| Philippines | 150-240 days | Longest processing times | Slower |
| United States | 60-90 days | Generally faster processing | Faster |
Note: Processing times are updated regularly by IRCC and can change without notice. Times shown are estimates based on recent applications. Check the official IRCC website for current processing times before applying.
Costs
SOWP Application Fees
Government of Canada fees for spousal open work permit applications.
Work Permit Processing Fee
$155 CADOpen Work Permit Holder Fee
$100 CADBiometrics Fee (individual)
$85 CADTotal (per applicant)
$340 CAD* Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current rates. Additional fees may apply for family members.
Avoid These Errors
Common SOWP Application Mistakes
Learn from others' mistakes to ensure your application is successful.
Applying without verifying spouse's employment in skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0-3)
Insufficient proof of genuine relationship or cohabitation
Incomplete or incorrectly filled application forms
Missing required documents or incorrect document formats
Not attending biometrics appointment within 30 days
Applying as spouse of undergraduate student (no longer eligible post-2024)
Expired passport or passport with less than 6 months validity
Not providing employment letter with NOC code for PGWP holder spouse
Applying before spouse has started their job or studies
Not responding promptly to IRCC requests for additional information
Pro Tip: Work with an RCIC
A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) can review your application before submission, identify potential issues, and ensure all requirements are met. This significantly increases your chances of approval and reduces processing delays.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about spousal open work permits in Canada
What is a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is an open work permit issued to the spouse or common-law partner of a foreign worker, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holder, or international student in Canada. Unlike employer-specific work permits, a SOWP allows you to work for any Canadian employer in any occupation without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Who is eligible for a spousal open work permit in 2026?
As of 2026, you are eligible if your spouse: (1) holds a valid PGWP and is employed in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation; (2) holds a work permit for a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0-3); or (3) is enrolled in a graduate-level program (Masters/PhD) at a Designated Learning Institution. Note that spouses of undergraduate students are generally no longer eligible due to 2024 policy changes.
Can I apply for SOWP if my spouse has a PGWP but is not working yet?
No. As of recent policy updates, your spouse must be actively employed in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation to sponsor your SOWP application. You will need to provide proof of employment including an employer letter, job offer, and recent pay stubs showing active employment.
What documents do I need for a spousal open work permit application?
Key documents include: valid passport, marriage certificate or common-law proof, completed IMM 5710 and IMM 5707 forms, digital photos, your spouse's valid work/study permit or PGWP, proof of spouse's employment or enrollment, relationship evidence (photos, joint accounts, correspondence), proof of cohabitation, and biometrics. Additional documents may be required based on your situation.
How long does it take to process a spousal open work permit?
Processing times vary significantly by location. Inside Canada applications typically take 90-120 days. Outside Canada, processing ranges from 60 days (USA) to 240 days (Philippines). IRCC processing times are updated regularly on their website. We recommend applying well in advance of when you need to work.
Can I apply for SOWP from outside Canada?
Yes, you can apply for a SOWP from outside Canada. You will need to apply online through the IRCC portal or at a visa application center in your country. Requirements include proof of your spouse's status in Canada, marriage certificate, and relationship evidence. Processing times vary by country of application.
Can spouses of international students still get open work permits?
As of 2024, only spouses of graduate-level students (Masters, PhD, or eligible professional programs) can obtain open work permits. Spouses of undergraduate and college students are generally no longer eligible for SOWP under the new restrictions. However, there may be exceptions for certain programs - consult with an RCIC for your specific situation.
How do I prove common-law relationship for SOWP?
To prove a common-law relationship, you must demonstrate you've lived together continuously for at least 12 months. Evidence includes: joint lease or property ownership, joint bank accounts, utility bills in both names, joint insurance policies, shared credit cards, statutory declarations, photos together over time, and correspondence addressed to both of you at the same address.
Can I extend my spousal open work permit?
Yes, you can extend your SOWP as long as your spouse continues to meet the eligibility requirements. Apply for extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. You'll need to provide updated proof of your spouse's status, employment/enrollment, and ongoing relationship. Apply online through your IRCC account.
What happens if my spouse loses their job while I have SOWP?
If your spouse loses their job or their work permit expires, it may affect your SOWP validity. You should inform IRCC of any changes in circumstances. If your spouse finds new employment in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0-3), you can maintain your SOWP. If they cannot find employment, you may need to change your status or leave Canada.
Ready to Apply for Your Spousal Open Work Permit?
Don't risk delays or refusals. Book a free consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants to assess your eligibility and ensure your SOWP application is complete.