On January 14, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced important updates to the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) program. Effective January 21, 2025, these changes tighten eligibility for SOWPs, limiting them to spouses of foreign workers in select skilled occupations classified under TEER 0, TEER 1, and specific TEER 2 and TEER 3 categories.
Key Changes to Eligibility
Under the new rules, only spouses of foreign workers employed in the following categories can apply for an SOWP:
- TEER 0: Highly skilled occupations
- TEER 1: Skilled occupations
- TEER 2 and TEER 3: Select occupations
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit when the spouse submits their application.
This marks a significant shift from previous policies, which allowed spouses to apply regardless of the foreign worker’s occupation. The updated criteria aim to prioritize highly skilled workers in high-demand sectors like healthcare, engineering, and construction.
Eligible TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations
The following table lists the eligible occupations for spousal open work permits based on the updated policy:
| TEER Group | Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|---|
| TEER 2 – Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences | ||
| 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 | |
| Construction inspectors | 22233 | |
| Occupational health and safety specialists | 22232 | |
| Engineering inspectors and regulatory officers | 22231 | |
| Non-destructive testers and inspectors | 22230 | |
| Information systems testing technicians | 22222 | |
| User support technicians | 22221 | |
| Computer network and web technicians | 22220 | |
| TEER 2 – Technical Occupations in Health | ||
| Opticians | 32100 | |
| Licensed practical nurses | 32101 | |
| Paramedical occupations | 32102 | |
| Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists | 32103 | |
| Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians | 32104 | |
| Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment | 32109 | |
| TEER 3 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services | ||
| Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants | 33100 | |
| Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations | 33101 | |
| Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates | 33102 | |
| TEER 3 – General Trades | ||
| Concrete finishers | 73100 | |
| Tilesetters | 73101 | |
| Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers, and lathers | 73102 | |
| Roofers and shinglers | 73110 |
(The table continues for all eligible occupations. Due to space constraints, not all rows are shown here. You can include the entire table in your document.)
Impact of the Policy Change
The changes aim to align Canada’s immigration priorities with economic needs. The government plans to issue 150,000 fewer SOWPs over the next three years while focusing on skilled talent in key sectors like healthcare and trades.
Existing permits issued before January 21, 2025, remain valid, and spouses of workers ineligible under the new rules cannot apply for an SOWP.
How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit
Follow these steps to apply for an SOWP:
- Complete the IRCC Eligibility Questionnaire: Use the IRCC website to check your eligibility and get a customized document checklist.
- Collect Required Documents: Gather proof of relationship, evidence of the principal applicant’s work status, and a valid work permit with at least 16 months remaining.
- Submit the Application: Log in to your IRCC account, upload the necessary documents, and pay the fees.
- Wait for Processing: Processing times vary depending on your location and application type.
Final Thoughts
The updated SOWP program prioritizes highly skilled workers and essential sectors to address labor shortages. While some spouses will face new restrictions, the policy aligns with Canada’s long-term economic goals.
Let me know if you’d like further enhancements or specific formatting adjustments for the table!