When you are living in Canada as the spouse of an international student or Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) holder, your legal status is extremely important. Many spouses enter Canada on a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), which allows them to work freely while their partner studies or works. But when the permit is close to expiry, a common confusion arises:
Should you apply for a SOWP Extension or switch to a Visitor Visa (Visitor Record) Extension?
At Globexa Immigration, we understand how crucial this decision is for families. In this blog, we will clearly explain both options, compare their advantages and limitations, and guide you on how to choose the right path.
1. What is a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension?
The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows the spouse or common-law partner of an eligible worker or international student to work anywhere in Canada without a job offer.
If your spouse has a valid Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) and is employed in a skilled job (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 under NOC system), you may qualify for a SOWP.
Extending your SOWP means you can continue working legally in Canada as long as your spouse maintains valid status and employment.
Benefits of SOWP Extension:
1. Legal right to work full-time anywhere in Canada.
2. Gain Canadian work experience that can count towards Permanent Residency (PR).
3. May qualify for provincial health coverage depending on the province.
4. Flexibility to work in any job without needing an LMIA or employer-specific permit.
Example:
If your spouse is working as a Software Engineer on a PGWP, you can extend your SOWP and continue working full-time.
2. What is a Visitor Visa (Visitor Record) Extension?
A Visitor Visa Extension, also known as a Visitor Record, only allows you to legally stay in Canada. It does not provide work rights.
Applicants usually choose this option when:
Their spouse’s PGWP is expiring soon.
Their spouse is not employed in an eligible skilled job.
They don’t meet IRCC’s updated SOWP eligibility criteria.
Limitations of Visitor Visa Extension:
1. No right to work in Canada.
2. Cannot gain Canadian work experience.
3. Usually not eligible for provincial health coverage.
But you can legally stay in Canada and remain with your spouse.
Example:
If your spouse’s PGWP is about to expire in three months and you apply for a SOWP extension, IRCC may refuse it. In this case, switching to a Visitor Visa Extension ensures you can legally remain in Canada until the next step (such as PR application).
3. Key Differences Between SOWP Extension and Visitor Visa Extension
The biggest difference between a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension and a Visitor Visa Extension is the right to work. A SOWP Extension allows you to work full-time anywhere in Canada, gain Canadian experience, and stay eligible for provincial health coverage. This makes it a stronger option for those planning to apply for Permanent Residency, since Canadian work experience is highly valuable.
On the other hand, a Visitor Visa Extension only gives you the right to legally stay in Canada—it does not allow you to work or access many benefits. While it is cheaper and easier to apply for, it doesn’t support your long-term PR goals. People usually choose this option when they are not eligible for SOWP but still want to remain in Canada with their spouse.
In short, SOWP is the better choice if you qualify, while a Visitor Visa Extension is more of a backup plan to maintain your legal status when SOWP is not possible.
4. Which One Should You Choose?
Choose SOWP Extension if your spouse:
Holds a valid PGWP or study permit.
Works in a skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).
Has enough validity on their permit to support your application.
Choose Visitor Visa Extension if your spouse:
Has a PGWP or study permit expiring soon.
Works in an ineligible job under current SOWP rules.
You only want to maintain legal status in Canada until another application (e.g., PR).
Pro Tip:
If your spouse is transitioning from PGWP to Permanent Residency, a Visitor Visa Extension might be the safer option to maintain your status until PR approval.
5. Common Mistakes Applicants Make
1. Applying for SOWP when not eligible – leading to refusal.
2. Missing deadlines and applying after the permit expires.
3. Not providing proof of spouse’s employment (pay stubs, job letter).
4. Applying for Visitor Visa Extension when eligible for SOWP (losing work rights unnecessarily).
6. How Globexa Immigration Can Help
Making the right choice between a SOWP Extension and a Visitor Visa Extension can significantly impact your career, finances, and PR pathway. At Globexa Immigration, we help you:
Assess eligibility for SOWP vs Visitor Extension.
Prepare a strong application with supporting documents.
Avoid refusal risks by applying under the correct category.
Maintain your legal status in Canada without interruptions.
Whether your goal is to work in Canada, gain PR, or simply maintain legal stay, our expert team ensures your application is done correctly the first time.
Conclusion
Both SOWP Extension and Visitor Visa Extension have their own advantages depending on your situation.
If you want to work and build a future in Canada, always aim for a SOWP Extension.
If you only want to stay in Canada legally but cannot qualify for SOWP, then a Visitor Visa Extension is the safer choice.
Still confused about which one is right for you? Contact Globexa Immigration today, and we will guide you to the best option for your family’s future in Canada.
