Several applicants have recently encountered unexpected document requests from IRCC when applying for a Spousal Open Work Permit, even when those items are not listed on the official website, checklists, or program guidelines.
In multiple cases, officers have asked for education credentials of the principal spouse in Canada, arguing that they must verify whether the worker meets the employment requirements of their NOC job. This has affected applicants even when the principal spouse holds a valid work permit and works in a Tier 1 occupation.
Applicants have also reported refusals where IRCC questioned salary authenticity because pay stubs were submitted without supporting bank statements showing the deposits.
These situations suggest a stricter interpretation of SOWP requirements, where officers may request additional evidence that is not formally published. As a result, applicants should prepare more complete documentation to protect their applications from avoidable refusals.
To reduce risk, include:
- Education documents of the principal spouse matching the NOC role
- Employment reference letter with full duties
- Pay stubs
- Bank statements or cheque copies showing salary deposits
- Any licenses or certificates required under the NOC code
This more cautious approach gives applicants the best chance of avoiding refusals based on newly observed document expectations.
