Is Your Job Eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada?
Learn about Canada's updated SOWP eligibility for TEER 2 & 3 occupations. Find out requirements, eligible jobs, and how to apply for a Spousal Work Permit.
Overview
The Government of Canada has updated its guidelines for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) as of January 21, 2025. These changes restrict SOWP eligibility to the spouses of foreign workers employed in specific occupations under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) framework, specifically those in:
- TEER 0 (highest skill level)
- TEER 1
- Certain TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations
To qualify, the principal foreign worker must hold a work permit valid for at least 16 months at the time of the spouse's SOWP application.
These changes do not affect valid permits issued under previous rules or eligible renewals. Prior to this, SOWP eligibility was open to spouses of workers in all occupations.
TEER 2 Occupations Eligible for SOWPs
NOC Group 22 – Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences
| Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians, and inspectors | 22313 |
| Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics | 22312 |
| Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment) | 22311 |
| Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians | 22310 |
| Construction estimators | 22303 |
| Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians | 22302 |
| Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians | 22301 |
| Civil engineering technologists and technicians | 22300 |
NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health
| Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Opticians | 32100 |
| Licensed practical nurses | 32101 |
| Paramedical occupations | 32102 |
| Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists | 32103 |
| Medical sonographers | 32122 |
TEER 3 Occupations Eligible for SOWPs
NOC Group 33 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services
| Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants | 33100 |
| Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates | 33102 |
| Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants | 33103 |
NOC Group 73 – General Trades
| Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Concrete finishers | 73100 |
| Tilesetters | 73101 |
| Roofers and shinglers | 73110 |
| Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) | 73112 |
Eligibility Criteria for SOWPs
To apply for a SOWP, ensure:
- Your spouse works in an eligible TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
- Your spouse's work permit is valid for at least 16 months at the time of application.
- You provide supporting documents, including proof of relationship and eligibility for employment in Canada.
How to Apply
- Complete IRCC's eligibility questionnaire to receive a tailored checklist.
- Gather required documents such as:
- Proof of relationship.
- Proof of your spouse’s occupation and work permit validity.
- Register/log in to an IRCC secure account and upload documents.
- Pay the required fees and submit your application.
Background and Future Plans
These measures aim to align SOWP issuance with Canada’s economic priorities, including healthcare and skilled trades. The changes are part of a broader strategy to manage the temporary resident population and reduce the issuance of SOWPs by 150,000 over three years.
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