IRCC Canada Announces Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit Allocations
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In The recent announcement of Canada, their immigration minister Mark Miller unveiled a few key updates to the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) program, an effort to effectively streamline temporary resident programs while maintaining opportunities for international families.
As of September 18th the new set criteria would limit SOWP eligibility for spouses of international students in certain Master's and doctoral programs. To qualify, master's degree students must now be enrolled in programs that are at least 16 months long.
These changes are in line with the government's earlier announcement that SOWPs would be available only to spouses or students in select high-demand programs at Designated Learning Institutions in Canada.
Also Explore: IRCC Updates Spousal Open Work Permit Eligibility
Starting in 2025, Canada would also implement a cap on student permits for Masters and doctoral students ensuring 12% of the total allocated 437,000 study permits will be reserved for them.
While the cap for 2024 won't impact the students, this thoughtful allocation would help manage student inflow and simultaneously strengthen Canada's academic landscape.
Explore: Unleashing Canada's Superpower Through Free and Quality Education
Now for over the next three years, it is estimated that these changes would result in 50,000 fewer SOWPs issued to the spouses of international students, a shift that aligns with Canada's border strategy to balance temporary residents and prioritize high skilled talent in the nation.
Affect on Spouses of Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada
In addition to international students, the changes extend to the spouses of temporary foreign workers as well. Hence now eligibility would also focus on spouses of highly scaled professionals in sectors facing critical labor shortages such as C-suite executives, scientists, engineers, and lawyers.
This measure is expected to reduce SOWP issuance by 100,000 over the next three years ensuring that work permits are granted where they are needed most.
How to apply for an SOWP?
As of April 30, spouses of international students may apply for a SOWP if their sponsor is studying in an eligible master's or doctoral program or a professional degree programs such as medicine, law, dentistry, or engineering. Applicants need to submit documents including:
- A valid letter of acceptance from DLI
- Proof of enrollment from their DLI
- Academic transcripts of the current program
- Proof of relationship with the student
Approved SOWPs will be valid for the same length as the sponsors study permit providing a reliable pathway for spouses to work and support their families during their time in Canada
Explore: How to Get a Job in Canada From India?
What's Next for Canada Temporary Residence?
The current updates are part of a border effect by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to fine tune the country's immigration policies as Canada's post pandemic economy stabilizes.
Minister Mark Miller emphasized that while immigration measures posted the workforce during the pandemic now is the time to adjust for long term sustainability.
Looking ahead, further details on temporary resident targets would be shared in the upcoming Immigration Levels Plan set to be revealed by November 1st. This plan will mark the first time Canada including specific targets for Temporary Residents signaling a thoughtful approach to maintaining a balanced population while continuing to welcome newcomers.
Looking forward to Canada Immigration Pathways in 2025?
These updates reflect Canada's commitment to fostering a strong skilled workforce while offering clear streamline pathways for families to work and thrive. If you are also looking for immigration opportunities to Canada, reach out to GetGIS to discover your eligible pathways and opportunities.
