To be eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit, you must meet one of the following requirements:

• Spouse of a Skilled Temporary Foreign Worker: Your spouse or common-law partner must hold a valid work permit in a skilled occupation under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, and must be physically working in Canada.
  
  

• Spouse of an Eligible International Student: You must be the spouse or common-law partner of an international student who is:

  • Enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, and
  • Studying in an eligible program, including:
    • Master’s or doctoral degree programs
    • Certain professional degree programs (e.g., Doctor of Dental Surgery, Doctor of Medicine, Bachelor of Law, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Bachelor of Engineering, etc.)
      
      

• In-Land Spousal Sponsorship Applicant: You must be the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and have applied for permanent residency under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (in-land sponsorship). You must have valid temporary resident status and reside in Canada with your sponsor.
  
  

• Spouse of Certain Open Work Permit Holders: If your spouse or common-law partner holds an open work permit (e.g., Post-Graduation Work Permit) and is employed in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), you may be eligible for an SOWP.
  
  

• Spouse of Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Holders: If your spouse or common-law partner has applied for permanent residence and holds a BOWP while working in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), you may qualify for an SOWP.
  
  
  Note: Recent policy changes have refined eligibility criteria, particularly for spouses of international students. Ensure you consult the latest guidelines or seek professional advice to confirm your eligibility.