Canada to Reduce Spousal Open Work Permits
Canada is planning a significant reduction in Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) issued, targeting a reduction of over 100,000 in the next three years, affecting the Canada Work Permit program. This change, announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, introduces stricter eligibility criteria for SOWPs, especially for spouses of students in certain academic programs.
New Eligibility Criteria for Spouses of International Students
Starting soon, only spouses of students enrolled in master’s programs lasting at least 16 months will be eligible for a SOWP. This new rule impacts many students pursuing doctoral degrees and some specific master’s programs, where the work permit option will no longer be available.
Additionally, the changes further restrict eligibility to those in high-demand fields. Master’s and doctoral students in professional degrees like medicine and law are still eligible, but the scope is significantly narrower than before.
Key Restrictions on Canada Work Permits
Earlier this year, Canada announced that SOWPs would be restricted to students in specific master’s and doctoral programs at designated learning institutions (DLIs). Undergraduate students, with some exceptions, are now excluded. This move aligns with Canada’s broader immigration policies, including the cap on study permits.
For 2025, Canada will count master’s and Ph.D. students towards the 437,000 total study permits, reserving 12% for these students. However, for 2024, these students are not affected by the study permit cap.
Impact on Spousal Open Work Permits
According to Minister Miller, these new measures will lead to 50,000 fewer SOWPs for spouses of international students over the next three years. The aim is to focus on students enrolled in longer and more specialized programs.
How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit
Currently, spouses of international students in eligible master’s or doctoral programs can still apply for a SOWP. Eligible programs include:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery
- Doctor of Medicine
- Pharmacy Degrees
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Engineering
To apply for a Canada Work Permit, the following documents are required:
- A valid letter of acceptance from the sponsor’s DLI
- Proof of enrollment in the program
- Transcripts of the current academic program
- Proof of relationship to the student
Once approved, the SOWP will be valid for the same duration as the student’s study permit.
Conclusion
With the new restrictions, applying for a Canada Work Permit through the Spousal Open Work Permit program will become more challenging. The changes are designed to control the number of permits issued and to focus on supporting high-demand academic programs. If you are considering applying for a SOWP, be sure to check the updated eligibility criteria and plan accordingly.