{"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 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 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 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 Applications submitted before March 19, 2024, will still be considered if the international student spouse meets the previous eligibility criteria. This includes having a valid study permit and being enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).<\/p>\n\n\n\n To apply for an SOWP under the new rules, spouses and partners will need to submit documents proving their relationship with the student and the student’s valid enrollment in a master’s or doctoral program. This may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Important Note:<\/strong> Spouses and partners of international students in undergraduate or college programs remain ineligible for SOWP under these new regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re an international student planning to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in Canada, this update provides a welcome opportunity for your spouse or partner to work and contribute to the household income while you complete your studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For further information on SOWP eligibility and application procedures, visit the IRCC website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Follow and connect with us on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a>, LinkedIn<\/a>, Instagram<\/a> and Google News<\/a> for the latest travel news and updates!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Is Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Eligibility Expansion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
New Eligibility Criteria<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Previous Eligibility No Longer Valid<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Documents Required for SOWP Application<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Considering Studying in Canada?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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