Target These Jobs for SOWP Extension & PR After 6 Months.
Are you in Canada on a PGWP or waiting for your spouse’s open work permit extension? Wondering which jobs to target that can get your spouse a work permit and help you both qualify for Canadian PR? This detailed guide is for you.
Welcome to Globexa Immigration. I’m Jitender Grover, and today we’re diving deep into a crucial topic: Which jobs in Canada are ideal for securing a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) and ultimately Permanent Residency (PR).
1. Why This Matters
Many international students and workers in Canada are married and aiming to bring or extend their spouse’s stay through a Spouse Open Work Permit. However, selecting the right job is critical. If done smartly, your job can:
Make your spouse eligible for an open work permit
Make you both eligible for Canadian PR under Express Entry’s Category-Based Draws
Let’s explore how to choose such jobs wisely.
2. Understanding Job Tiers & Eligibility
Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) is divided into tiers:
Tier 0 and Tier 1 jobs: Automatically qualify you for SOWP and may make you eligible for PR too.
Tier 2 and Tier 3 jobs: Require careful selection. Only some are eligible for both SOWP and PR.
3. Jobs That Qualify for Both SOWP & PR (Tier 0 & 1)
These jobs not only help your spouse apply for an open work permit but are also featured in Express Entry’s special category draws, making PR easier.
1. Healthcare Occupations
NOC codes under healthcare are in high demand:
Registered nurses
Dentists
Medical laboratory technologists
Pharmacists
Dental hygienists
Note: Most of these require Canadian certification or licensing.
2. STEM Jobs
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) roles are highly valued:
Civil Engineers (21300)
Mechanical Engineers (21301)
Electrical Engineers (21310)
Software Developers (21232)
Cybersecurity Specialists
Tip: If you have STEM experience, these jobs can fast-track your PR.
3. Skilled Trades
Skilled trade jobs are part of Category-Based Express Entry draws:
Construction Managers (70010)
Home Building & Renovation Managers (70011)
These roles are Tier 0/1 and eligible for SOWP and PR.
4. Education Occupations
These include:
Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (42202)
Elementary and Secondary School Teachers (41220, 41221)
Getting certified to teach in Canada is tough—but Early Childhood Assistant roles often don’t require licensing.
4. Tier 2 & Tier 3 Jobs That Work for SOWP & PR
Many applicants aim for Tier 2 or 3 jobs. Only certain ones qualify for both SOWP and PR. These include:
Common Eligible Occupations:
Machinists (72100)
Welders (72106)
Electricians (72200)
Plumbers (72300)
Carpenters (72310)
Cabinet Makers (72311)
Bricklayers (72320)
Social Workers (41300)
Nursing Aides and Orderlies (33102)
These jobs are:
Part of the Spouse Open Work Permit eligibility list
Featured in Express Entry category draws
Sometimes require certification—but not always
5. Top 2 Jobs That Require NO License but Work for SOWP + PR
If you don’t have a background in trades or licenses, these two jobs are game-changers:
1. Painters and Decorators (73102)
Doesn’t require a formal license
Common in construction sector
Eligible for SOWP & PR (after 6 months full-time)
2. Floor Covering Installers (73111)
Also license-free in many provinces
Job can be started with basic skills or training
Best Part: These jobs can lead to PR under the Skilled Trade Stream with just 6 months of Canadian experience.
6. Bonus: Get PR Even From Outside Canada!
If you’re still outside Canada, consider these options:
French Language Draws: Get B2 level in French, and you’ll be eligible for special PR draws.
Elementary School Teachers: If you have a Master’s, 3+ years of experience, CLB 9 IELTS, and a sibling in Canada, you could qualify for PR from abroad—even with a high cut-off.
7. Strategy: Which Job Should You Choose?
Short-Term Goal: Secure a job that qualifies your spouse for a work permit
Long-Term Goal: Choose a job that will get you or your spouse 6 months of full-time experience for PR under Category-Based Express Entry draws
8. Final Tips
Always check the latest NOC code lists for SOWP eligibility and Express Entry categories.
Target jobs that appear in both lists for the best outcome.
If you’re unsure, consult immigration professionals like us at Globexa Immigration.
9. Need Help Finding the Right Job or Applying for SOWP?
At Globexa Immigration, we help clients across Haryana (especially Panipat) with:
✅ Expert assistance for Spouse Open Work Permits (SOWP)
✅ Canada PR guidance through Express Entry
✅ Personalized job search support
✅ Seamless transition from Study Visa to PGWP
