Can I study on a spouse open work permit in Canada?

Yes, you can study, but your need for a Study Permit depends on the length of the program and when you applied for your SOWP. As an international student, understanding these nuances is critical for your partner’s legal status.

1. The “6-Month Rule” (Most Common)

You do not need a study permit if:

• Your program is 6 months or less.
• You will finish the course before your spouse open work permit expires.
• The Catch: The course cannot be a “prerequisite” or the first module of a longer diploma/degree. If you plan to continue studying after 6 months, you should apply for a study permit from day one.

2. The Temporary Public Policy (Applied before June 7, 2023)

If you held a valid work permit (or applied for one) on or before June 7, 2023, a special policy allows you to study any length of program (full-time or part-time) without a study permit until:

• Your work permit expires, OR
• June 27, 2026 (whichever comes first).
• Note: If you applied for your SOWP after June 7, 2023, this exception does not apply to you.

3. Holding “Dual Status”

You can hold an SOWP and a Study Permit at the same time. This is often the best route for long-term programs because:

• It allows you to graduate with a Canadian credential.
• It ensures you are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) later if your spouse’s status changes.

For more information if you can apply for PGWP and your partner for SOWP simultaneously, read our FAQ “Can I apply for a pgwp and spouse open work permit together.”

4. Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL)

As of 2025, most new study permit applications require a PAL. However, if you are already in Canada holding a valid spouse open work permit, you are generally exempt from the PAL requirement when applying for a study permit from within Canada.

5. The “No Work-Hour Limit” Advantage

One of the best “hidden” benefits of studying while on an SOWP is that you are not restricted by the 24-hour-per-week work limit.

• The Detail: Regular international students are limited to 24 hours of off-campus work per week (as of late 2024/2025 rules). However, because your primary status is a Work Permit, you can study full-time and continue to work full-time (40+ hours) simultaneously.
• Why it matters: This allows you to maintain your family’s income while upgrading your skills, a benefit regular students don’t have.

Need assistance with Canadian immigration or a spousal open work permit and want to move through the process smoothly and confidently, you can book a consultation with our experts. Also you can review our Immigration Consultant Prices to find the package that fits your needs.

If you need a full overview on spouse visa Canada, you can visit our dedicated webpage for a complete breakdown of the family reunification process.