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Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Restrictions
Effective: January 21, 2025
TL;DR
SOWPs restricted to spouses of TEER 0/1 workers (and select TEER 2/3 priority occupations). Spouses of low-skilled workers no longer eligible. Spouses of students restricted to those in Master's programs ≥16 months, doctoral, or specific professional programs. Most dependent children no longer eligible.
What changed
- TEER 4/5 worker spouses no longer eligible.
- Spouses of students limited to spouses of long-form Master's, PhD, and selected professional-program students.
- Most dependent children no longer eligible for OWPs.
Who is affected
Spouses of foreign workers and international students, plus dependent children.
Source: View on canada.ca →
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