Spouse Open Work Permit Update

IRCC has recently announced several adjustments to Canada's international student program. Effective March 19, 2024, spouses and partners of international students can now apply for a spousal open work permit (SOWP).

However, this option is available only if the sponsor is enrolled in a master's or doctoral degree program in Canada.

Those interested in obtaining a SOWP must provide documentation proving their relationship with the student.

The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) enables the spouse or partner of a temporary Canadian permit holder to work and reside in Canada.
Individuals seeking this permit include those sponsored by their partners or whose partners hold study or work permits in Canada.

IRCC has specified the eligibility criteria for SOWP, highlighting that partners and spouses of international students qualify if their sponsor is pursuing a master's or doctoral degree program. Additionally,

there's a list of professional degree programs eligible for SOWP applications, including

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD),
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc),
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc),
Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL),
Doctor of Optometry (OD),
Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.),
Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm),
Doctor of Medicine (MD),
and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).