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Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
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Dreaming of Joining Your Spouse in Canada? Here’s How to Make It Happen Through the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Planning to join your spouse in Canada? The Spousal Open Work Permit lets you work and live together in Canada—without a job offer in hand. Let our experts make the process smooth, simple, and stress-free.
The LMIA-Based Work Permit allows skilled foreign workers to live and work in Canada by securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. This employer must first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)—a document that proves there is a need for a foreign worker and no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position.
Unlike points-based immigration systems, the LMIA pathway is job-offer driven, making it ideal for individuals looking to gain Canadian work experience, earn an income, and potentially transition to permanent residency in the future.
There are several categories under which LMIA-based work permits may be issued, including:
High-Wage and Low-Wage Streams
Global Talent Stream (for in-demand tech roles)
Agricultural Workers Stream
Caregivers and Healthcare Professionals
The steps involved while applying for (SOWP)
Check Eligibility
Confirm that your spouse is a full-time international student, a skilled worker with a valid work permit, or a PR applicant in Canada. Your eligibility for SOWP depends on their status.
Collect Required Documents
Prepare documents like a valid passport, marriage certificate or proof of relationship, your spouse’s permit and employment/enrollment letters, proof of funds, and other supporting paperwork.
Submit the Application Online
Apply online through the IRCC portal. Select “Open Work Permit” and ensure all forms and documents are accurately filled and uploaded.
Pay Government Fees
Pay the required application fees, which include the work permit fee and the open work permit holder fee (CAD $255 total).
Provide Biometrics
Attend a biometrics appointment if required. You’ll receive an instruction letter after submission
Wait for Processing
Track your application online while IRCC reviews your submission. Processing times may vary based on where you apply from.
Receive Your Work Permit
If approved, you’ll either receive a letter to present at the Canadian port of entry or have the work permit mailed to you directly if applying from within Canada.
Eligible Sponsor Categories
[Who Can Sponsor for SOWP]
You may be eligible for SOWP if your spouse is a: Full-time international student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), Skilled worker with a valid Canadian work permit, Principal applicant for Permanent Residency under programs like Express Entry,
No Job Offer Required
[Open Work Permit Advantage]
Unlike many work permits, the SOWP does not require a job offer. You can work for any employer in Canada, providing you freedom and flexibility in your career.
Inside or Outside Canada
[Application Flexibility]
You can apply for SOWP while inside Canada (if you’re on a visitor or study status) or from your home country, making it easier to reunite with your spouse.
Why Should You Choose Kirpa Associates?
Best advise
Seamless immigration solutions for your journey
Experienced Lawyers
Expert legal counsel, your trusted advocates
Customer support
Exceptional service, exceeding expectations, always
Post landing support
Guiding your new beginning with expert care
- Free counselling and personalized guidance on selecting the right visa category
- Step by step guidance on Canadian SOWP Visa
- Best customer service before and after initiating the process
- Regular follow-up and timely response
- Pre-landing and post landing support
- Job search assistance through the proper channel
Immigrate to Canada with Kirpa Associates
It’s important to understand that meeting the eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee a successful Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) application. The process can be detailed and complex, especially when proving relationship authenticity and satisfying IRCC documentation standards. That’s why it’s highly recommended to seek expert guidance to navigate the application smoothly and improve your chances of approval.
At Kirpa Associates, we are dedicated to helping individuals reunite with their spouses or partners in Canada through the SOWP pathway.
Our team of licensed Canadian immigration consultants and legal professionals has in-depth experience assisting clients with SOWP applications. We provide personalized, client-focused support tailored to your relationship and immigration history—guiding you from eligibility checks to final approval—ensuring your case is handled with care, accuracy, and efficiency.
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Certified & Registered by
- monday - saturday
- 11.00AM - 08.00PM
Copyrights © 2025 Kirpa Associates All Rights Reserved
