Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) in 2025: What You Need to Know

At Master Immigration Services, we have observed increased uncertainty among Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders and temporary foreign workers in Canada regarding the eligibility of their spouses or common-law partners for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). In light of the changes introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in early 2025, the criteria have become notably more restrictive and nuanced.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the revised SOWP eligibility requirements, with a focus on job classification (NOC), regional wage thresholds, and essential supporting documentation.

1. Updated Eligibility Criteria (Effective January 2025)

As of January 21, 2025, IRCC has implemented targeted eligibility rules for spouses and common-law partners of temporary foreign workers. Under the updated policy, only spouses of individuals employed in high-skilled occupations—defined by the 2021 National Occupation Classification (NOC) under specific TEER categories—may apply for a SOWP.

Eligible Categories:

• TEER 0 and TEER 1: All occupations are eligible.

• TEER 2 and 3: Only selected occupations qualify, including:

  • Healthcare professionals

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields

  • Skilled trades and construction roles

  • Transportation operators

  • Agricultural and natural resource occupations

  • Educators and instructors

  • Certain military and high-performance sports occupations

Note: Spouses of workers in TEER 4 and 5 occupations are no longer eligible unless applying through a separate pathway (e.g., permanent residence sponsorship).

2. Spouses of PGWP Holders

Spouses of individuals holding a valid PGWP may still qualify for a SOWP if specific conditions are met. Eligibility hinges on the nature of the job, rather than the type of work permit held.

To qualify, the PGWP holder must:

• Be employed in a TEER 0, 1, or eligible TEER 2/3 occupation

• Work full-time (30 hours or more per week)

• Earn a wage equal to or above the median wage for their occupation and region (as per Job Bank Canada)

• Hold a work permit valid for a minimum of 16 months at the time of the spouse’s application

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3. Employer Letter – A Key Component

A well-documented employment letter from the principal applicant’s employer is critical to a successful SOWP application. The letter should include:

• Job title and NOC 2021 code

• Start date and confirmation of current employment

• Full-time employment status (30+ hours/week)

• Detailed salary/wage information

• Employer’s full contact details

We also recommend that the stated wage meet or exceed the region-specific median for the occupation. This strengthens the application by demonstrating the principal applicant's skilled and stable employment.

4. Outland SOWP Applications – Additional Considerations

Spouses applying from outside Canada are subject to increased scrutiny, particularly regarding their intent to return to their home country after the authorized stay. While core eligibility requirements remain unchanged, IRCC may place greater emphasis on evidence of temporary intent and strong ties abroad.

To support your application, consider including:

• Proof of employment or self-employment in the home country

• Financial documents indicating economic stability (e.g., property ownership, business interests)

• Evidence of family or caregiving obligations

• A detailed letter of explanation outlining intent, ties, and commitment to compliance with Canadian immigration law

A failure to demonstrate temporary intent may result in refusals under IRPR section 183(1)(a).

5. Spouses of International Students

Under the revised 2025 framework, only spouses of students enrolled in certain advanced academic programs are eligible for a SOWP:

• Master’s programs (minimum 16 months)

• PhD programs

• Professional degree programs (e.g., MD, DDS, JD, BEng, BScN, BEd)

Spouses of undergraduate or college diploma students are no longer eligible unless they apply under a separate stream.

6. Grandfathered Applications

Applications submitted prior to January 21, 2025, will be assessed under the previous criteria. This includes broader eligibility for spouses of workers in lower-skilled occupations and less restrictive assessments regarding work permit types.

7. How We Can Help

Navigating the revised SOWP landscape requires careful assessment of the principal applicant’s employment, NOC classification, wage level, and immigration history. At Master Immigration Services, we offer tailored advice and hands-on support to help you prepare a compliant, compelling application.

If you are uncertain about your eligibility or facing conflicting information, we encourage you to book a consultation with our Director and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Selim Koyuncu. Our team can assist you in:

• Verifying the appropriate NOC and TEER level

• Ensuring the offered wage meets or exceeds the median threshold

• Preparing a complete and persuasive SOWP application

• Strengthening outland applications with the right documentation

We are committed to helping you and your family make informed, strategic immigration decisions.