Canada has unveiled updated regulations regarding the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP), aiming to refine the program’s parameters.
Effective March 19, significant alterations dictate that partners and spouses of international students are now eligible for a SOWP solely if their sponsor is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at a recognized university or polytechnic institution in Canada.
This adjustment marks a tightening of the rules governing SOWP eligibility, signaling a shift towards more targeted criteria aimed at aligning the program with specific educational pursuits within the country.
The revision underscores Canada’s commitment to optimizing immigration policies to meet evolving needs while ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of programs designed to facilitate spousal employment opportunities.