Spousal Open Work Permit in Ontario – Stay & Work in Canada with Your Partner
Are you looking to work in Canada while your spouse is studying or working? The Spousal Open Work Permit allows you to build your career and gain valuable Canadian work experience without needing a job offer. At GreenHill Immigration, we specialize in guiding applicants through the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application. Whether your spouse is an international student or a skilled worker, our expert consultants are here to assist you every step of the way.
What is a Spousal Open Work Permit?
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or common-law partner of a temporary foreign worker or an international student to work for any employer in Canada. If your partner is currently studying or working in Canada, you may be eligible for an open work permit that allows you to build your career and stay together in Ontario.
Unlike employer-specific work permits, a Spousal Open Work Permit does not require a job offer, making it a flexible and convenient option for spouses seeking employment opportunities in Canada.
Who Can Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit?
You may qualify for a Spousal Open Work Permit if your spouse or partner falls into any of the following categories:
- International Student – Your spouse is studying full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with a valid study permit.
- Skilled Worker – Your spouse holds a valid work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP).
- Permanent Residency Applicant – If your partner is applying for PR under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada (SCLPC) Class, you can also apply for an open work permit.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidate – Your spouse has been nominated under an Ontario PNP (OINP) program and holds a work permit.
- Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Holder – If your spouse has a PGWP and is working in a skilled occupation, you may be eligible.
Benefits of a Spousal Open Work Permit in Ontario
No Job Offer Required – You don’t need a job offer to apply.
Work in Any Industry – Freedom to work in any occupation and any province in Canada.
Fast Processing Times – Most applications are processed within 4 to 6 months.
Extendable Permit – You can renew your permit as long as your spouse remains eligible.
Pathway to Permanent Residency – Work experience in Canada can improve your chances of getting PR.
No LMIA Required – Unlike other work permits, SOWP does not require an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit in Ontario?
Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit involves multiple steps, and accuracy is key to approval. Here’s what you need to do:
Check Eligibility
Make sure your spouse meets the eligibility criteria before applying.
Gather Required Documents
You will need:
📌 Marriage Certificate or proof of common-law relationship
📌 Copy of your spouse’s valid study or work permit
📌 Proof that your spouse is working or studying in Canada
📌 Bank statements showing sufficient funds to support yourself
📌 Passport, visa, and other identification documents
Submit Your Application
You can apply:
✅ Online via IRCC’s portal
✅ At a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
Biometrics & Processing
✅ You may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo).
✅ Processing takes approximately 4 to 6 months, depending on the workload of IRCC.
Receive Your Open Work Permit
Once approved, you can start working anywhere in Canada!
