Question regarding SOWP/BOWP/PGWP for Spousal Sponsorship

[cheddarinwardly]

Hello there,

My spouse is currently on a PGWP but we got married and I sponsored her during April 2025. Her PGWP expires next year in August 2026 and I was wondering what will I need to do in case the Spousal Sponsorship goes past her PGWP expiration date. Would it make sense to extend the PGWP or apply for BOWP/SOWP instead?

Thanks!

 

[Ponga]

Assuming you are cohabiting together in Canada, she may already be eligible for the SOWP, if you have received the AOR email from IRCC for the Spousal Sponsorship application package:

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...mmon-law-partner-canada-open-work-permit.html

Who can apply​

You can apply for an open work permit if you’re 1 of the following:

• a spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner living in Canada who’s being sponsored for permanent residence
• an accompanying dependent child of the principal applicant

Principal permanent residence applicants​

When you (the person being sponsored for permanent residence) apply for your open work permit, you must also be

• in a genuine relationship with your sponsor
• included in an application for permanent residence, and have an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) letter confirming that your permanent residence application is being processed
  • The AOR must be for your permanent resident application. It’s the AOR your sponsor receives from IRCC.
• living in Canada with your sponsor

Good luck!