{"id":36278,"date":"2024-03-21T15:24:29","date_gmt":"2024-03-21T09:54:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelobiz.com\/?p=36278"},"modified":"2024-03-21T15:24:45","modified_gmt":"2024-03-21T09:54:45","slug":"canada-announces-new-rules-eligibility-for-spousal-open-work-permit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/travelobiz.com\/canada-announces-new-rules-eligibility-for-spousal-open-work-permit\/","title":{"rendered":"Canada Announces New Rules, Eligibility for Spousal Open Work Permit"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In a recent announcement, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled significant modifications to Canada\u2019s international students and changes to the eligibility of their spouses and partners for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)<\/a> as of March 19, 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These changes aim to enhance opportunities for spouses and partners of international students, particularly in accessing work permits. Here are the key highlights:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or partner of a temporary resident in Canada to work and live in the country without needing a specific job offer. It promotes family reunification and enables spouses to contribute to the Canadian workforce. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and provide proof of their relationship and their partner’s status in Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eligibility Expansion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Under the latest amendments, spouses and partners of international students are now eligible for a spousal open work permit (SOWP). This permit allows them to work and reside in Canada alongside their partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New Eligibility Criteria<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

IRCC has refined the eligibility criteria for SOWP applicants. Previously limited to partners<\/a> of students enrolled in master\u2019s or doctoral programs, the eligibility now extends to partners of students enrolled in professional degree programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This includes various fields such as dentistry, engineering, nursing, law, optometry, education, pharmacy, medicine, and veterinary medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are the eligible professional degree programs for applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP):<\/p>\n\n\n\n