Spousal Open Work Permit [SOWP] During Sponsorship – Benefits & Eligibility

Updated on May 27, 2025 by canadian immigration experts

If you’re in Canada and have applied to sponsor your spouse or partner through the Inland Spousal Sponsorship stream, you might be wondering:

Can a Spouse Work While Waiting for PR in Canada (Inland)? 

The answer is Yes, Your Spouse Can Work While Awaiting PR (If Eligible)

Through the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), applicants who meet the Inland criteria can apply for the legal right to work in Canada while their sponsorship application is being processed. This permit offers temporary work authorization, which not only helps financially but also supports faster integration into Canadian society.

In this guide, you will Learn if your spouse can work in Canada while waiting for Spousal Sponsorship approval. Understand SOWP eligibility, application steps, and benefits.

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Who Qualifies for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)?

To legally work in Canada while waiting for their permanent residency through Inland Spousal Sponsorship, an applicant must meet the eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).

 Eligibility Requirements for a SOWP

To apply, the applicant must:

• Be living inside Canada with their sponsor

• Have valid temporary resident status (visitor, student, or worker) at the time of application

• Be included in a submitted Inland spousal sponsorship application (Family Class – Spouse or Common-law Partner in Canada class)

• Show proof of a genuine relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Apply either:
  • At the same time as the sponsorship PR application (as a combined package), or
  • After receiving the Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC

💡 Note: If the applicant is out of status, they may still be eligible under IRCC’s public policy — but legal advice is highly recommended.

Who Is Not Eligible?

A person may not qualify for the SOWP if:

• They are applying Outland (from outside Canada)
• Their temporary resident status has expired and restoration is not possible
• They do not meet the relationship criteria (e.g., not legally married or common-law)

How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada

Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) can be done alongside your Inland sponsorship application or after submission once you’ve received your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC. The process is relatively straightforward, but it must be followed carefully to avoid delays or refusals.

Option 1 – Submit the SOWP with the Sponsorship Application

This is the most common method. When applying Inland, you can bundle the SOWP application with your spousal sponsorship PR package.

You will need to include:

• Completed IMM 5710 (Application to Change Conditions or Extend Stay – Worker)
• Proof of valid temporary resident status (e.g., visitor record or study/work permit)
• Copy of the IMM 1344 and IMM 5532 sponsorship forms
• Proof of relationship (photos, marriage certificate, etc.)
• Payment of the $255 CAD work permit fee (includes $155 application + $100 open work permit holder fee)

Option 2 – Apply for SOWP After Receiving AOR

If you’ve already submitted your Inland sponsorship application and later receive the Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR), you can apply for the SOWP online through your IRCC account.

You’ll need:

• Your AOR confirmation
• IRCC UCI number and Application number
• IMM 5710 + supporting documentation
• Payment receipt
• Valid temporary resident status

Where to Apply

•  Submit online through the IRCC Secure Account
•  Do not use paper forms unless instructed
•  IRCC will notify you about biometrics if they are required

SOWP Processing Times

IRCC processing times for SOWPs generally range from 2 to 5 months, depending on volume and whether biometrics are needed. Applying early can prevent work interruptions.H2: Benefits of a Spousal Open Work Permit While Awaiting PR

Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is more than just a legal formality — it’s a practical and empowering step for couples waiting on Inland Spousal Sponsorship. It allows the applicant to contribute financially, build Canadian work experience, and integrate into society during what can be a long and uncertain wait for permanent residency.

Freedom to Work in Any Job or Industry

The SOWP is an open permit, which means there are:

•   No restrictions on employer or job type
•  No need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
•  Full freedom to work anywhere in Canada

This makes it especially helpful for applicants with diverse skills or those seeking quick employment.

 Financial Relief for the Couple

Waiting for PR can take 12–18 months, and many couples face financial pressure. The SOWP helps by:

• Allowing the applicant to earn income
• Reducing financial burden on the sponsor
• Supporting living costs, legal fees, and settlement expenses

Builds Canadian Work Experience

Working while waiting means your spouse can:

• Start building a Canadian employment history
• Improve their resume for future PR applications (e.g., economic streams if needed)
• Strengthen ties to the local community and job market

 Reduces Isolation and Supports Mental Well-Being

Being unable to work while waiting can lead to stress, loneliness, or low confidence. The SOWP helps maintain:

• Purpose and productivity
• Social integration through workplace interaction
• Improved emotional resilience during the immigration wait

Summary – Yes, Your Spouse Can Work While Awaiting PR (If Eligible)

If your spouse or partner is in Canada and you’ve applied for Inland Spousal Sponsorship, they may be eligible to work legally through a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). This work permit empowers them to earn income, gain Canadian experience, and avoid unnecessary stress while their permanent residence application is being processed by IRCC.

To qualify, your spouse must:

• Be physically present in Canada with valid status
• Be included in a submitted Inland sponsorship application
• Apply for the SOWP either with the PR package or after receiving Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC
• Meet all other IRCC eligibility criteria

Applying correctly is essential — and a mistake on forms or timing could delay both the work permit and the sponsorship itself.

Need Help Applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit?

At Jane Katkova & Associates, we’ve helped hundreds of couples navigate Inland Sponsorship and Open Work Permits with confidence. Whether you’re submitting your sponsorship package or applying for the SOWP separately, our immigration professionals can ensure your application is complete, compliant, and built for success.

📞 Book a personalized consultation today to get expert advice on your eligibility and step-by-step support with your forms, documents, and IRCC submissions.

Q1: Can my spouse work while waiting for Inland Spousal Sponsorship approval?

Yes. If eligible, your spouse can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) and legally work in Canada while the Inland sponsorship is being processed.

Q2: What are the eligibility criteria for a Spousal Open Work Permit?

Your spouse must be living in Canada with valid temporary resident status and be included in a submitted Inland spousal sponsorship application to qualify.

Q3: Can I apply for the SOWP and sponsorship at the same time?

Yes. You can submit the SOWP (IMM 5710) together with the sponsorship and permanent residence forms as one package to IRCC.

Q4: How long does it take to get a Spousal Open Work Permit in Canada?

SOWP processing times vary, but most applicants receive their permit in 2–5 months, depending on biometrics and IRCC workload.

Q5: Is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required for a SOWP?

No. A Spousal Open Work Permit is LMIA-exempt, meaning your spouse can work for any employer without a job offer or LMIA.