SOWP Pending + AIP Work Permit — Experiences?

[Georgita]

Hi everyone,


I’m looking for advice or experiences from people who have gone through something similar.


My spouse is currently on implied status in Canada while waiting for a Post-Graduation Work Permit decision. I submitted a Spousal Open Work Permit extension before my previous permit expired. Around the same time, my spouse’s hiring process for a full-time skilled role (TEER 2) was being finalized, and we updated IRCC with the official offer as soon as it was issued (before the previous work permit expired).


Now we’re considering submitting an AIP employer-specific work permit to secure the long-term position and possibly support the PR process.


Has anyone navigated a situation like this — especially where:

• The SOWP extension is pending and maintaining status,
• The spouse’s official job offer comes after the application is submitted, and
• You’re trying to coordinate timing with an AIP work permit and/or PR application?

Any insights on timing, risks, or best practices would be greatly appreciated!


Thanks in advance!

 

[Naturgrl]

When did you apply for PR through the AIP program to be elgible?

 

[Georgita]

We’re planning to apply for PR under the AIP program but haven’t submitted anything yet. We’re wondering about the timing - is it possible to apply before the employer-specific work permit is issued, or is it better to wait until the work permit is finalized?

 

[Naturgrl]

We’re planning to apply for PR under the AIP program but haven’t submitted anything yet. We’re wondering about the timing - is it possible to apply before the employer-specific work permit is issued, or is it better to wait until the work permit is finalized?

You apply for PR first with your employer job letter who is designated. Then you get provincial referral letter to apply for a work permit. AIP has so few slots that PR is not guaranteed.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...ion/how-to-immigrate/permanent-residence.html

So not eligible for a work permit until submit PR application and get referral letter.

As for SOWP, is spouse's NOC eligible

 

[Georgita]

I already have referral letter from province, but same time I'm on implied status for SOWP. I had the question about submitting second application - AIP employer-specific work permit.

 

[Naturgrl]

I already have referral letter from province, but same time I'm on implied status for SOWP. I had the question about submitting second application - AIP employer-specific work permit.

You have to apply for PR first through AIP and then the work permit which is closed. All in the link. So you are SOWP holder who is applying for PR.

 

[Georgita]

You have to apply for PR first through AIP and then the work permit which is closed. All in the link. So you are SOWP holder who is applying for PR.

Thank you!