Changing Status from IEC to CWP and SOWP

[alfredo276]

Hi all,

I'm married, and my spouse and I are currently living in Canada on an IEC visa that expires in March. My company has provided me with an LMIA to apply for a CWP.

I understand that this process can take some time, and I would like to know if my spouse can apply for an SOWP alongside me, or if she will need to change her status to visitor and wait for my CWP to be approved.

*Note: She doesn’t have an LMIA.

Thank you!

 

[Naturgrl]

Hi all,

I'm married, and my spouse and I are currently living in Canada on an IEC visa that expires in March. My company has provided me with an LMIA to apply for a CWP.

I understand that this process can take some time, and I would like to know if my spouse can apply for an SOWP alongside me, or if she will need to change her status to visitor and wait for my CWP to be approved.

*Note: She doesn’t have an LMIA.

Thank you!

What is your NOC?

 

[alfredo276]

What is your NOC?

72013

 

[Naturgrl]

72013

Should be okay to submit SOWP at same time.

 

[alfredo276]

I was looking at the IRCC website and I don't think it will be possible.
Although the IEC is a 'work visa', the CWP is considered a 'new application' for a work visa. It's hard to believe.

 

[Naturgrl]

I was looking at the IRCC website and I don't think it will be possible.
Although the IEC is a 'work visa', the CWP is considered a 'new application' for a work visa. It's hard to believe.

What is hard to believe. Yes, of course it is a new work permit. You cannot extend or renew an IEC.

 

[alfredo276]

What is hard to believe. Yes, of course it is a new work permit. You cannot extend or renew an IEC.

I was planing to apply for both the CWP and SOWP simultaneously. From what I understand, I need to first apply for the CWP and wait for its approval (which takes around 3-4 months). After that, I can apply for the SOWP.
If my IEC were considered an extension of the work permit, I could apply for both at the same time.
It's hard to believe, but in the meantime, my spouse will need to change her status to a visitor if she wants to stay in Canada.

 

[Naturgrl]

I was planing to apply for both the CWP and SOWP simultaneously. From what I understand, I need to first apply for the CWP and wait for its approval (which takes around 3-4 months). After that, I can apply for the SOWP.
If my IEC were considered an extension of the work permit, I could apply for both at the same time.
It's hard to believe, but in the meantime, my spouse will need to change her status to a visitor if she wants to stay in Canada.

Why can’t spouse apply at the same time as you if you have an approved LMIA, job letter and paystubs?

 

[alfredo276]

In fact, I think you are correct.
I made a mess because some NOCs are no longer acceptable.
Thanks!

 

[alfredo276]

Why can’t spouse apply at the same time as you if you have an approved LMIA, job letter and paystubs?

What do you understand about this note:
"2) Your work permit or authorized work must be valid for at least 16 months after we receive your spouse or common law partner’s open work permit application."
Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents - Canada.ca
Does this cancel the possibility of simultaneous application?