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Do you need CAQ to apply for SOWP if already in Canada

Person001

Star Member
Jan 2, 2023
66
53
Hello!

My spouse and I have an outland spousal sponsorship in progress and she is visiting with a TRV.
Under the new measures, she can apply for an OWP.

We are in Quebec and she has her CSQ from the sponsorship.

My question is, can she apply for the OWP without a CAQ, or she must obtain the CAQ before she can start the application for OWP?

My other question: if she applies for OWP and it is granted, is she required to work while she is in Canada or it just gives her the option to work if she finds something she likes? Eg: if she stayed here for another year as a visitor because of the status extension of the OWP but never worked, is it a problem?

Thank you!