Many a times, the workers under LMIA / PGWP seem to be confused whether their spouse can apply for Open Work Permit (OWP) if they are working somewhere which falls under TEER 4/5 job (previously was classified as NOC C/D). Somehow, they are under the wrong impression that they need job under TEER 0/1/2/3 (previously was classified as NOC 0/A/B) to able to apply OWP for their spouse.

Why did I say, “wrong impression”? Let’s look at what IRCC is saying about the eligibility of OWP applicants?

Here, they clearly mentioned that you may be eligible for an open work permit if you’re the spouse, common-law partner or dependent child of a worker in an occupation that’s classified under Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. Means your job level in terms of TEER / NOC should not be a problem.

However, there are some exceptions to eligibility as shared below and you need to be careful about those.

Please take serious note of the fact that the Immigration rules are constantly changing, therefore, you must check the latest terms and conditions before you apply.  

Disclaimer: The above writing is not intended to be a source of legal advice. Please seek legal advice and use your own good judgement before choosing to act on any information provided above. If you choose to rely on this article, you do so entirely at your own risk.