Canadian immigration has updated the eligibility requirements for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP). Effective March 19, 2024, spouses of international students can only get an SOWP if their partner is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at a university or polytechnic institution. Previously, spouses of students in undergraduate and college programs were also eligible.
Exceptions for Spouses of Undergraduate Students
There’s good news for some spouses of undergraduate students! They can still apply for an SOWP if their partner is enrolled in a professional degree program at a university. These programs include:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Law (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Medicine (MD)
- Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
- Education (B. Ed.)
- Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc)
Proof of Relationship and Enrollment Required
To apply for an SOWP under this exception, you’ll need to provide documents proving your relationship with the student and their enrollment in the program. This can include:
- A valid acceptance letter (LOA) from a designated learning institution (DLI) for the student’s program
- A proof of enrollment letter from the student’s DLI
- Transcripts from the student’s current program
What if I already applied for an SOWP?
The new rules don’t apply to you if you submitted your Spousal Open Work Permit application before March 19, 2024. Your eligibility remains the same as long as your spouse or partner is in good standing as an international student, meeting these criteria:
- Has a valid study permit.
- Is eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) after completing their studies.
- Studies full-time at an approved institution:
- Public post-secondary schools (colleges, universities) or CEGEPs in Quebec
- Private college-level schools in Quebec
- Canadian private schools authorized to award degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral)
This applies even if you’re a current SOWP holder applying to extend your permit.
Are You Interested in Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit to Canada?
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VisaPlace Immigration News Contributor
Casey
Meet Casey, one of VisaPlace's immigration news contributors. She brings 7+ years of experience of content creation and SEO to VisaPlace. Casey has honed her expertise in delivering comprehensive and up-to-date content on immigration-related matters. Her work not only encompasses the complex legal aspects of immigration but also highlights the ever-evolving policies, procedures, and news that impact immigrants and aspiring visa holders.
