Spouse Sponsorship in Canada: How to Get an Open Work Permit for Your Partner
Sponsoring your spouse or partner for permanent residency in Canada can be a complex process. However, while your application is being processed, your partner may be eligible for an Open Work Permit (OWP), allowing them to legally work in Canada.
What is an Open Work Permit?
An OWP allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada, with few restrictions. This can provide financial stability and independence while you navigate the immigration process. What is an Open Work Permit?
Eligibility for an OWP During Spouse Sponsorship
- In-Canada Application: Both Inland (Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class) and Outland (Family Class) sponsorships may qualify for an OWP if your partner is in Canada.
- Genuine Relationship: You must have a genuine and ongoing spousal relationship.
- PR Application Submitted: Your spouse must be included in your PR application and have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Residency in Canada: Your partner must be residing in Canada with you.
How to Apply for an OWP:
- AOR Receipt: Once you receive the AOR for your PR application, your partner can apply for an OWP through their IRCC Secure Account.
- Online Application: The application process is primarily online. Your partner will need to answer questions and provide the necessary documents.
- Document Checklist: IRCC will provide a personalized document checklist outlining the required documents for the OWP application.
- “SCLPC FC OWP” Designation: In the job title section of the OWP application, your partner should enter “SCLPC FC OWP”.
Important Considerations:
- Temporary Resident Status: If your partner does not have valid temporary resident status (work permit, study permit, visitor visa), they must wait for an approval-in-principle letter before applying for an OWP.
- Processing Time: OWP applications typically take four months to process.
- Maintaining Legal Status: Your partner must maintain their legal status in Canada throughout the process.
- Work Authorization: Your partner can only start working after receiving their approved OWP.
Benefits of an OWP:
- Financial Independence: Provides financial stability while awaiting permanent residency.
- Integration: Helps your partner integrate into Canadian society.
- Reduced Reliance on Financial Support: Allows your partner to contribute to household expenses.
Additional Resources:
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
- IRCC Secure Account: [Link to IRCC Secure Account – Please note: I cannot provide direct links to government login pages due to security concerns]
- How to Sponsor Your Spouse or Partner for Permanent Residence in Canada: A Guide to Spouse Sponsorship in Canada [invalid URL removed] (Liberty Immigration)
- Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan: Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025 [invalid URL removed] (IRCC)
- Open Work Permit Processing Times: Processing Times [invalid URL removed] (IRCC)
- Cost of Applying for an Open Work Permit: Fees for Open Work Permits [invalid URL removed] (IRCC)
By understanding the OWP process, you can help ensure a smoother and more stable transition for your spouse during your Canadian immigration journey.
We understand that spouse sponsorship can be a complex process. Here at Liberty Immigration, our experienced immigration consultants can guide you through every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation!
