The Canadian government has recently updated its eligibility criteria for the Canada Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). This significant policy change impacts the spouses of foreign workers in Canada, narrowing down the list of qualifying occupations. As of January 21, 2025, spouses will only be eligible for a work permit if the principal foreign worker is employed in TEER 0, TEER 1, or select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system.
New Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Open Work Permit
On January 14, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new policy, restricting SOWP eligibility based on the foreign worker’s occupation and work permit validity. Under the revised rules:
- The principal applicant (foreign worker) must be working in an eligible TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3 occupation.
- The foreign worker’s work permit must be valid for at least 16 months at the time of the SOWP application.
- Previously approved valid work permits remain unaffected by these changes.
This shift aims to prioritize skilled workers in high-demand occupations while ensuring that spouses receive employment opportunities aligned with Canada’s labor market needs.
Full List of Eligible TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations
The following is the list of TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations eligible for a spousal open work permit under the new policy:
NOC Group 22 – Technical Occupations in Natural and Applied Sciences
- Aircraft instrument, electrical, and avionics mechanics, technicians, and inspectors – NOC 22313
- Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics – NOC 22312
- Electronic service technicians – NOC 22311
- Civil engineering technologists and technicians – NOC 22300
- Computer network and web technicians – NOC 22220
- Industrial designers – NOC 22211
- Biological technologists and technicians – NOC 22110
NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health
- Licensed practical nurses – NOC 32101
- Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists – NOC 32103
- Pharmacy technicians – NOC 32124
- Medical laboratory technologists – NOC 32120
- Massage therapists – NOC 32201
NOC Group 42 – Education and Public Protection Services
- Early childhood educators and assistants – NOC 42202
NOC Group 72 – Technical Trades and Transportation
- Supervisors, railway transport operations – NOC 72023
- Welders and related machine operators – NOC 72106
- Industrial electricians – NOC 72201
NOC Group 73 – General Trades
- Roofers and shinglers – NOC 73110
- Transport truck drivers – NOC 73300
- Heavy equipment operators – NOC 73400
NOC Group 82 & 83 – Natural Resources and Related Production
- Supervisors, logging and forestry – NOC 82010
- Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors – NOC 82030
- Underground production and development miners – NOC 83100
- Oil and gas well drillers and servicers – NOC 83101
For a full list of eligible occupations, refer to the official IRCC website.
Steps to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit
Follow these steps to apply for a SOWP under the updated policy:
- Check Your Eligibility
- Use the IRCC Eligibility Questionnaire to determine if you meet the requirements.
- Ensure that your spouse’s job falls under TEER 0, TEER 1, or an eligible TEER 2/3 occupation.
- Gather Required Documents
- Proof of marital or common-law relationship.
- A copy of the principal applicant’s valid work permit.
- Proof that the principal applicant’s work permit is valid for at least 16 months.
- Proof of the principal applicant’s employment in an eligible occupation.
- Submit the Application
- Create an account on the IRCC website.
- Upload all required documents and pay the processing fees.
- Processing Time
- Processing times vary depending on your country of residence and IRCC workload.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What if my spouse’s occupation is not on the eligible list?
- Unfortunately, spouses of workers in ineligible occupations cannot apply for a SOWP under the new rules.
- Are previously approved SOWPs still valid?
- Yes, work permits issued before January 21, 2025, remain valid.
- Can I apply for a SOWP from outside Canada?
- Yes, as long as you meet all eligibility criteria.
- How much does it cost to apply for a SOWP?
- The application fee varies; refer to the IRCC website for the latest fee details.
- How long does it take to process a SOWP?
- Processing times depend on your country of application and IRCC office workload.
Conclusion
The latest Canada Spousal Open Work Permit update introduces stricter eligibility criteria, focusing on skilled workers in high-demand sectors. If you are planning to apply, ensure your spouse’s occupation falls under the updated TEER classifications and that their work permit is valid for at least 16 months. Staying informed and preparing the required documents will improve your chances of a successful application.
For more updates on Canadian immigration policies, subscribe to IRCC updates or visit Canada’s official immigration website.