Complete List of Jobs Eligible for Canada Spousal Open Work Permit
New Rules for Spouses of Foreign Workers
The Canadian government has updated its list of occupations that qualify for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), and it may impact you if you are the spouse of a foreign worker in Canada. Let’s break down the new rules in simpler terms:
What’s Changed?
On January 14, Canada announced new eligibility requirements for spouses of foreign workers who want to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). The key update is that only spouses of foreign workers in certain jobs can now apply.
Before this, spouses could apply for a work permit no matter what job their partner had. But now, the worker must have a job in a TEER 0, TEER 1, or certain TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations. Also, the foreign worker’s work permit must be valid for at least 16 more months when the spouse applies.
What Are TEER Occupations?
TEER stands for Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities. It’s a system that ranks jobs in Canada from the highest (TEER 0) to the lowest (TEER 5). Spouses of foreign workers can now apply for a SOWP only if their partner’s job is in one of the eligible TEER 0, TEER 1, 2, or 3 categories.
Teer 2 Noc codes eligible for SOWP
| Number of employees | Application allocation |
|---|---|
| 1 to 10 NWT employees | 1 application |
| 11 to 49 NWT employees | 2 applications |
| 50+ NWT employees | 4 applications |
Teer 3 Noc codes eligible for SOWP
| Category | Allocation | Highlighted eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| The Entry Level / Semi-Skilled Occupations | 35 | In addition to meeting all other eligibility criteria, applicants must have: - An expiring work permit in 2025; and - Been working full-time in the NWT for at least 12 months before applying. |
| Skilled Worker OR NWT Express Entry | 35 | In addition to meeting all other eligibility criteria, applicants must have: - A full-time and permanent job offer with an NWT employer; - 12 months of work experience in the nominating occupation; and - An expiring work permit in 2025. OR - Been working full-time in the NWT at least 18 months before applying. |
Which Jobs Are Eligible?
There’s a detailed list of jobs under TEER 2 and TEER 3 that qualify for the SOWP. These include technical roles like engineers, technicians, and health-related jobs like nurses and medical lab technologists. It also covers trades, construction jobs, and some positions in education and public services.
Steps to Apply for a SOWP
If you’re eligible, here’s how you can apply:
- Visit the IRCC Eligibility Questionnaire: This helps you figure out which documents you need.
- Gather Documents: You’ll need proof of your relationship and your partner’s job, as well as evidence that your partner’s work permit is valid for at least 16 months.
- Submit Online: Apply through the IRCC website by uploading documents and paying the required fees.
- Wait for a Decision: Processing times can vary depending on your location.
What Happens If My Partner’s Job Doesn’t Qualify?
Unfortunately, if your partner’s job is not on the updated list, you will not be eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit under these new rules.
Are Old Permits Still Valid?
Yes! If you already have a work permit that was approved before January 21, 2025, it is still valid.
Can I Apply from Outside Canada?
Yes, spouses living outside of Canada can still apply for a SOWP, as long as they meet the requirements.
Conclusion
These changes may seem a bit tricky, but they aim to make sure the right workers and their families benefit from the Spousal Open Work Permit. If your partner’s occupation qualifies and you have all the necessary documents, you’re one step closer to working in Canada!
