Permit Type
Open Work PermitWork for any employer
Processing Time
3 – 6 MonthsOnline application
Gov't Fee
CAD $255Open Work Permit fee
Validity
Tied to PrincipalLinked to partner's status
Work in Canada While Your Partner Studies or Works
The Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or common-law partner of an eligible student or skilled worker to work anywhere in Canada — without being tied to a specific employer. Eligibility rules changed significantly in November 2024, and we ensure your application aligns with current IRCC policy and the correct stream.
Eligibility & Key Information
Requirements and what you need to know before applying
Eligibility Requirements
You are the spouse or common-law partner of an eligible temporary resident
Student stream: Partner is enrolled full-time at a DLI in a PGWP-eligible program
Worker stream: Partner holds a valid work permit in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 NOC occupation
Genuine relationship supported by strong documentary evidence
Both applicant and principal partner are in valid immigration status
Valid passport and no prior immigration violations or misrepresentation
SOWP Streams (Post Nov 2024)
Student Stream: Partner in PGWP-eligible full-time program
Worker Stream: Partner in TEER 0–3 NOC occupation
Open permit — work for ANY Canadian employer
No LMIA required — employer-neutral authorization
Duration linked to principal applicant's permit
Renewal possible when partner's status is extended
What You're Getting
End-to-end support from assessment to approval
Eligibility Stream Assessment
We identify which SOWP stream applies — student stream or worker stream — based on your partner's current permit type and NOC level.
Relationship Evidence Package
We help you compile a comprehensive relationship evidence package — photos, communication logs, financial ties, joint documents.
Application Preparation
We prepare the complete application — all IRCC forms, supporting documents, and cover letter — for error-free submission.
Joint Application Coordination
If applying jointly with your partner's extension or renewal, we coordinate both applications for simultaneous submission.
Implied Status Guidance
If your current permit is expiring, we advise on maintaining implied status legally while your application is in process.
IRCC Representation
We handle all IRCC communications and respond to additional requests within required timelines.
How We Work With You
A clear step-by-step process from start to approval
01
Eligibility Assessment
We confirm which SOWP stream applies and assess whether your relationship evidence meets IRCC's standard.
02
Relationship Evidence
We provide a comprehensive checklist and review your evidence package — photos, communications, joint finances, and cohabitation proof.
03
Application Assembly
We prepare all IRCC forms, draft the cover letter, and compile the complete application package for review.
04
Quality Check & Filing
We conduct a final quality check before submitting online via the IRCC portal to minimize processing delays.
05
Status Monitoring
We track your application status and notify you immediately of any IRCC updates or requests for additional information.
06
Receipt & Next Steps
Once approved, we advise on your work authorization conditions and planning for permit renewal well in advance.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees — what you see is what you pay
Professional Service Fee
USD
900
base fee / applicant
Spouse Open Work Permit — Complete Handling
Previous Refusal on File
+ USD 300
Joint Application with Partner Renewal
Discounted bundle available
Additional Applicants (per person)
Charged extra
Government fee of CAD $255 is paid directly to IRCC and is separate from our service fee. Biometrics fee (CAD $85) may apply. SOWP eligibility rules changed November 2024 — we ensure compliance with current policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this service
Yes — significant changes were introduced in November 2024. The student stream now requires the partner to be in a full-time PGWP-eligible program. The worker stream requires TEER 0–3. We ensure your application reflects the current rules.
Yes — an open work permit allows you to work for any Canadian employer in any location, without restriction.
It's linked to your partner's permit duration. When your partner renews their status, you can apply to renew your SOWP at the same time.
If your partner extends their status in time, you can maintain implied status. We advise on timing to avoid any gaps.
Yes — joint applications are possible and often efficient. We coordinate both applications to ensure they align.