Why the Spousal Open Work Permit is an Excellent Option

Why the Spousal Open Work Permit is an Excellent Option?

Samuel Francis Gills Published:
March 10, 2023

According to a survey conducted by Gallup (a global analytics and advice firm that helps leaders and organizations solve their most pressing problems), Canada has emerged as one of the post preferred destinations for immigrants all over the world, second only to the USA. In fact, the survey showed that the percentage of people preferring Canada over the USA has increased over 8% compared to their previous survey.

The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) stands out. As part of the program, the spouse or partner may apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) to work and live anywhere in Canada while the permanent residency application is being processed, which can take up to a year to process. Those who are applying for inland spousal sponsorship for permanent residency may also be eligible for a SOWP. This option provides a significant benefit to the applicant, as it allows them to continue working and living in Canada while waiting for their permanent residency application to be processed.

Definition of an Open Work Permit

An open work permit is a type of work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to work for any employer in Canada without requiring a job offer from a specific company. Unlike closed work permits, which restrict the foreign national to work for a single employer, an open work permit allows the individual to work and live anywhere in Canada.

Additionally, open work permits exempt the applicant from fulfilling certain prerequisites that are necessary for other types of work permits, such as the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Advantages of a Spousal Open Work Permit

A spousal open work permit is a type of work permit that allows the spouse or partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to work in Canada while their application for permanent residency is being processed. Some benefits of a spousal open work permit include:

Flexibility: With a spousal open work permit, the individual can work for any employer in Canada, and they are not restricted to a specific employer or location.
No job offer required: Unlike other types of work permits, a spousal open work permit does not require a job offer from a Canadian employer, making it easier for the individual to obtain work authorization.
No Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) certificate required: The Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process is often lengthy and can be complicated. With a spousal open work permit, the individual is exempt from this process, making it quicker and easier to obtain work authorization.
Opportunity to gain Canadian work experience: The spousal open work permit allows the individual to gain Canadian work experience, which can be valuable for future job opportunities in Canada. Also, it makes the person eligible for permanent residence easily through the Federal Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream.
Improved quality of life: The ability to work in Canada while waiting for permanent residency status can provide financial stability and improve the quality of life for the individual and their family.

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) – Are you Eligible?

The eligibility criteria for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) are as follows:

Be married to or in a common-law relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is sponsoring their permanent residency
Have a valid temporary resident status in Canada as a visitor, student, or worker.
Have a pending application for permanent residency as a spouse or common-law partner under the Family Class Sponsorship Program.
Meet the standard admissibility requirements to enter and remain in Canada, such as passing a medical examination and security clearance.

Send us a message to check if you are eligible for SOWP!

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) | Application Process

To apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), you must:

Determine your eligibility: Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for a SOWP.
Gather the required documents: Collect all the necessary documents to support your application, including your passport, proof of temporary residency, marriage certificate, proof of sponsorship, and proof of payment.
Complete the application form: Fill out the application form for an open work permit, making sure to select the correct category for your application.
Pay the application fee: Pay the required application fee and any additional fees, such as biometric fees if applicable.
Submit the application: Submit your application package to the appropriate office, depending on your location and type of application. You can submit the application online or by mail.
Wait for a decision: Wait for a decision on your application, which can take several months. You may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview during the processing time.
Receive your work permit: If your application is approved, you will receive your Spousal Open Work Permit, which allows you to work in Canada while your permanent residency application is being processed.

Contact us today to know if you qualify to migrate to Canada. Check out Owlspriority Immigration’s Canada Settlement Resources to learn about finding employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.