Can my partner work in Canada while the spousal sponsorship is being processed?

Under the inland stream, the sponsored spouse or common-law partner can typically apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). This open permit allows them to work for nearly any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

The SOWP helps couples maintain income while the permanent residence application is in process. Conjugal partners and outland applicants generally do not get this in-process open work permit; once permanent residence is granted, the partner can work freely regardless of stream.