Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
The Spousal Open Work Permit lets spouses or common‑law partners of Canadian permanent residents, citizens, or eligible work/study permit holders work in Canada without needing a job offer. As of January 21, 2025, eligibility is now restricted to cases where the sponsoring partner’s job falls under TEER 0–1, or select TEER 2–3 roles.
How It Works
Submit a PR sponsorship or inland sponsorship application—your spouse must be included and the application must be in process (with an Acknowledgement of Receipt, or AOR, letter).
Apply for the open work permit online from within Canada using IRCC’s secure account.
Maintain status while waiting—as long as you applied before your current status expired, you can legally work under the same conditions until IRCC processes your application.
Why It's Helpful
Allows you to work freely while your PR application is being reviewed.
Processing is typically quick—around 4 months for inland applications.
Supports family unity and financial stability during the immigration process.
At Nivara Immigration, we guide you through sponsorship, help you obtain the open work permit, and make sure you’re able to work confidently while waiting.
