The Canadian federal government has announced updates to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs), including a list of TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations that will continue to allow foreign workers’ spouses to apply. These changes, effective January 21, 2025, reflect a shift in policy aimed at reducing the number of temporary residents in Canada.
Under the updated rules, spouses of foreign workers may only qualify for a SOWP if the principal applicant is employed in one of the following:
- A TEER 0 occupation.
- A TEER 1 occupation.
- Select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations listed below.
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months of validity remaining on their work permit when the spouse applies.
Spousal work permits issued under previous policies will remain valid until their expiry and can still be renewed if eligible.
TEER 2 Jobs Eligible for SOWPs
The following TEER 2 occupations under Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) system remain eligible:
Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences (NOC Group 22)
- Aircraft instrument, electrical, and avionics mechanics, technicians, and inspectors (22313)
- Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics (22312)
- Civil engineering technologists and technicians (22300)
- Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians (22310)
- Industrial designers (22211)
- Chemical technologists and technicians (22100)
Technical Occupations in Health (NOC Group 32)
- Licensed practical nurses (32101)
- Medical sonographers (32122)
- Dental hygienists and dental therapists (32111)
- Pharmacy technicians (32124)
- Massage therapists (32201)
Front-Line Public Protection and Paraprofessional Occupations (NOC Group 42)
- Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces (42102)
- Early childhood educators and assistants (42202)
Technical Trades and Transportation Officers (NOC Group 72)
- Welders and related machine operators (72106)
- Heavy-duty equipment mechanics (72401)
- Electricians (72200)
- Plumbers (72300)
Supervisors in Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Related Production (NOC Group 82)
- Supervisors in logging, mining, and quarrying (82010, 82020)
- Agricultural service contractors and supervisors (82030)
TEER 3 Jobs Eligible for SOWPs
The following TEER 3 occupations are still eligible:
Health Services Support Occupations (NOC Group 33)
- Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants (33100)
- Nurse aides and patient service associates (33102)
Education and Public Protection (NOC Group 43)
- Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants (43100)
General Trades (NOC Group 73)
- Concrete finishers (73100)
- Tilesetters (73101)
- Transport truck drivers (73300)
- Heavy equipment operators (73400)
Natural Resources and Related Production (NOC Group 83)
- Underground miners (83100)
- Logging machinery operators (83110)
How to Apply for a SOWP
Spouses of foreign workers must meet all eligibility criteria, including:
- Proof of a valid relationship with the principal applicant.
- Evidence that the principal applicant works in an eligible TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
- Proof that the foreign worker has at least 16 months of remaining work permit validity.
Steps to apply:
- Complete the IRCC eligibility questionnaire to receive a tailored document checklist.
- Gather required documents, including proof of relationship, work authorization, and job details.
- Register or log in to your IRCC secure account to upload documents and submit payment.
Once submitted, IRCC will process your application, and updates will be provided through your account.
Background on the Changes
These updates are part of broader measures introduced by IRCC to limit the number of temporary residents in Canada. Initially announced in September 2024, the changes aim to address housing supply and affordability challenges.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller indicated that restricting SOWPs to spouses of workers in highly skilled and in-demand occupations would result in 150,000 fewer SOWPs issued over the next three years.
IRCC has also implemented admission targets for work permit holders under the International Mobility Program (IMP), which includes SOWPs:
| Year | New IMP Work Permit Holder Admissions |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 285,750 |
| 2026 | 128,700 |
| 2027 | 155,700 |
Why These Occupations?
Many of the TEER 2 and 3 occupations that remain eligible align with Canada’s economic priorities, including healthcare, trades, and skilled labor. These industries are critical to addressing labor shortages and supporting Canada’s economic growth.
Need help navigating the SOWP process or verifying your eligibility? Contact Skynet Immigration for expert assistance. Our team, led by RCIC Salekur Rahman, ensures your applications are handled with precision and care.
Book your free consultation today!
