The Spousal Open Work Permits offered by Canada authorize spouses/common-law partners of Permanent Residents or Citizens of Canada to work in the nation. SOWP validity is linked with the Work Permit of the sponsoring partner/spouse.
The chief objective of SOWP is to authorize the sponsored spouse/partner to work in Canada while their Canada PR Visa application is under process. The sponsorship applications are not just limited to Citizens or Permanent Residents in Canada. Eligible sponsors can also include those who are studying or working in Canada currently.
One of the key benefits of SOWP is that it permits families to increase their income and thus make it more comfortable to live in Canada. However, it is vital that both the principal applicant and the spouse/partner fulfill all the criteria before filing the application.
Eligibility Criteria
- The principal applicant i.e. the partner/spouse has to be a Permanent Resident or Citizen or Temporary Resident in Canada on the Study or Work Permit
- The principal applicant must possess a lawful Work or Study Permit
- The spouse/partner has to be residing in Canada
The SOWP offers flexibility to the holders as they can be employed by any employer in Canada and an LMIA - Labor Market Impact Assessment is not required.
Duration
Usually, the SOWP validity is linked to the duration of the Work or Study Permit of the principal applicant/sponsoring spouse/partner.
Spouse/Partner of Permanent Residents or Citizens in Canada
SOWP authorizes the spouse/partner of a Permanent Resident or Citizen in Canada to work in Canada. The validity of the SOWP is for the duration of the Work Permit of the sponsoring partner/spouse. The key aim is to authorize sponsored partner/spouse to work in Canada while their PR Visa application is being processed.
Spouse/Partner of Temporary Residents in Canada
SOWP also allows spouses of specific Temporary Resident status holders in Canada to work in any location in Canada and with any employer with certain restrictions.
SOWP Application Process
- Confirm eligibility: Make sure that both the principal applicant and the spouse/partner fulfill the eligibility criteria before filing the application
- Collate essential documents: It includes Study or Work Permit copies of the principal applicant, proof of relationship, and marriage certificate
- Complete the Application Form: the SOWP Application Form IMM-1295 is available on the website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada
- Make a payment of a fee: The SOWP application fee is CAD 255. However, you must once confirm the current fee from the IRCC website.
- File the application: The application can be filed online or offline (paper-based). The online applications are processed quickly.
- Wait for the result: The processing times are variable and you can track the status of your application online
- Get the SOWP: You will receive the Work Permit if your application is approved and you can work for any Canadian employer
Note that though the SOWP offers employment flexibility, it is essential that the holders abide by all the specified conditions and maintain its validity.
Required Documents and Fees
The application process for SOWP requires cautious preparation and submitting the specified essential documents. The documents required are as follows:
- Evidence of relationship: This can include a certificate of marriage for the spouse. In the case of common-law partner joint bank accounts, shared bills or photographs can be submitted.
- Status of Principal Applicant
- Work or Study Permit copy
- Proof of currently working or studying in Canada
- Application Form: IMM 1295 Form has to be accurately filled out with details of the applicant such as personal information, intent, and background
- Passport: The valid passport must have a validity that surpasses the intended stay period in Canada
- Photographs: 2 latest photos of passport size according to the specifications of IRCC
- Medical Examination: A few applicants may have to appear for a medical examination, particularly if they have resided in specific nations for an extended duration
- Clearance from Police: Based on the nation of residence, a clearance certificate from Police may be needed
- Evidence of Funds: Proof that the spouse is competent to take care of themselves while living in Canada
Fees
Processing Fee – The processing fee for SOWP is CAD 255
Biometrics Fee (if relevant) – a few applicants may have to submit their biometrics by making payment of a fee, which is CAD 85
SOWP Renewal
You cannot renew your SOWP. You can file a fresh application for a SOWP if your permit expires and your Spouse/partner’s work permit and lawful status in Canada are still valid.
If you wish to obtain assistance with Spousal Open Work Permits or Post-graduation Work Permit Applications or file an application for Canada PR from India, contact Immigration Experts at the Best Immigration Consultants in Hyderabad Nationwide Visas.
No comments yet