What is the success rate of a spouse open work permit (SOWP) in Canada?

IRCC does not publish official approval or refusal statistics specifically for spouse open work permit applications. In practice, however, the success rate is generally high when applicants clearly meet eligibility requirements and submit a complete, well-documented application. An overview of eligibility across all categories is available on the Spousal Open Work Permit page, which explains how this permit applies to spouses of foreign workers, international students, and permanent residence applicants.

Approval chances are strongest when the principal applicant clearly qualifies, including when they are:
A temporary foreign worker employed in an eligible TEER 0–3 occupation
A full-time international student at a designated learning institution (DLI)
A permanent residence applicant eligible for a spouse open work permit

Applicants who are unsure whether they qualify often review the FAQ “Who can apply for a spouse open work permit” before applying.

Another major factor affecting success is proof of a genuine relationship. IRCC carefully evaluates whether a marriage or common-law partnership is real and ongoing. Strong supporting evidence—such as a marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation, shared finances, and relationship history—significantly improves approval chances. Many refusal scenarios discussed in the FAQ “Why is a spouse’s open work permit refused in Canada?” are linked to weak or inconsistent relationship evidence.

Application quality also matters. Incomplete forms, missing documents, or unclear explanations can result in refusal even when eligibility exists. This is especially important for spouses applying while a permanent residence application is in progress under the Spousal Sponsorship Program, as work permit and sponsorship applications are assessed separately.

Because approval depends heavily on eligibility, documentation strength, and application accuracy, many applicants choose professional support. Working with our Canadian immigration consultants can help you assess your chances and avoid common refusal reasons. You can review pricing on the Immigration Consultant Fees page or get personalized advice by visiting our Book a Consultation page.