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IRCC’s New SOWP Rules Impact Many Spouses – Are You Still Eligible?

At StayinCanada Immigration, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest immigration policy changes and ensuring your application has the highest chances of success. As a trusted immigration firm with a proven track record of successful applications, we help families navigate Canada’s immigration system with confidence.

Effective January 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced significant changes to the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) program. These updates affect spouses of foreign workers and international students, making eligibility more restrictive than before. If your spouse is working or studying in Canada, it’s crucial to understand these new rules to avoid unexpected refusals.

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What’s Changing?

For Spouses of Foreign Workers:

If your spouse is working in Canada on a valid work permit, their job category now determines whether you can apply for a SOWP. The new rules specify that SOWPs are only available if the principal foreign worker is employed in:

TEER 0 or 1 occupations (managerial and professional roles) Certain TEER 2 or 3 occupations in high-demand sectors, including:

• Healthcare
• Construction
• Natural resources
• Education
• Engineering
• Sports
• Military

Spouses of workers in non-eligible TEER 2 or 3 occupations are no longer eligible.

For Spouses of International Students:

Previously, spouses of most international students could apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit. However, under the new rules, eligibility is now limited to spouses of students enrolled in:

Master’s or Doctoral programs (lasting 16 months or longer) Select professional programs (e.g., Medicine, Law, Engineering, Nursing)

Spouses of undergraduate or shorter college diploma students are no longer eligible for a SOWP.

Other Key Changes:

Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for an Open Work Permit. The primary foreign worker must have at least 16 months left on their work permit at the time of the SOWP application.

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How These Changes Affect You

These updates will impact thousands of applicants. If your spouse is working in Canada, you must now verify whether their occupation falls under the eligible categories. If your spouse is studying, the institution and program type must meet the new stricter criteria.

At StayinCanada Immigration, we have helped hundreds of families successfully secure their SOWPs, even in complex cases. Our deep understanding of Canada’s immigration laws and policy shifts allows us to provide strategic solutions tailored to your situation.

What Can You Do Next?

If you’re unsure whether your spouse qualifies under the new SOWP requirements, you need expert guidance to ensure your application meets all criteria. StayinCanada Immigration can assess your case and explore alternative pathways if your eligibility has been impacted.

Book a consultation with us today to find out if your spouse’s job qualifies for any exceptions: Click Here to Schedule a Consultation

Stay ahead of policy changes with the experts at StayinCanada Immigration. Let us help keep your family together in Canada!