when can spouse on SOWP start work?

[lybc]

I know someone entering Canada on a study permit cannot start working until their study program starts, but if their partner has an open work permit, are they eligible to work ASAP? Do they also have to wait until the student's program starts?

 

[Naturgrl]

I know someone entering Canada on a study permit cannot start working until their study program starts, but if their partner has an open work permit, are they eligible to work ASAP? Do they also have to wait until the student's program starts?

What does the OWP state? Most times the SOWP is the same dates as the study permit so cannot work until program starts.

 

[lybc]

Thanks for the reply, @Naturgrl... The Study Permit and SOWP will both be applied for at POE (land crossing at one of the Buffalo/Niagara bridges, both are US citizens) on Oct 31. I know the student won't be able to work until his classes start in early January, but I wondered if his partner might be able to start work sooner than that so they have a little cashflow.

 

[Naturgrl]

Thanks for the reply, @Naturgrl... The Study Permit and SOWP will both be applied for at POE (land crossing at one of the Buffalo/Niagara bridges, both are US citizens) on Oct 31. I know the student won't be able to work until his classes start in early January, but I wondered if his partner might be able to start work sooner than that so they have a little cashflow.

Usually the open work permit coincides with the study permit because the spouse got an SOWP based on the study permit so expect that spouse cannot start working until January. They are entering early since studies don’t start until January so they should have the funds to support themselves for 2 months.

 

[Naturgrl]

Also given they are entering so early, CBSA may not issue them the study permit and say to come back closer to January.

 

[canuck78]

I know someone entering Canada on a study permit cannot start working until their study program starts, but if their partner has an open work permit, are they eligible to work ASAP? Do they also have to wait until the student's program starts?

In general should coincide with the start of your studies given that is the only reason your spouse is entitled to the WP. If you attempt to enter Canada much earlier than the start date of your program and there are concerns that the goal is for your family to work before you start school you can be denied entry.

 

[lybc]

In general should coincide with the start of your studies given that is the only reason your spouse is entitled to the WP. If you attempt to enter Canada much earlier than the start date of your program and there are concerns that the goal is for your family to work before you start school you can be denied entry.

thanks @canuck78... I'll pass on the info!