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Everyone Wants TEER 0 & 1 Jobs: What You Must Know for Spousal Open Work Permit

Many applicants in Canada are looking for TEER 0 and TEER 1 jobs because these roles, along with some TEER 2 and 3 occupations, are eligible to sponsor a spouse for an Open Work Permit (SOWP). However, there’s more to eligibility than just the job title. Understanding the nuances of TEER classifications and NOC alignment is critical to avoid refusals.

What Are TEER 0 & 1 Jobs?

TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories are used to classify Canadian occupations under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.

TEER 0: Management jobs (e.g., general managers, department managers)
TEER 1: Professional occupations that typically require a university degree (e.g., engineers, accountants, IT professionals)

Why Job Title Alone Is Not Enough

A job title alone does not determine TEER eligibility. The duties performed must align with the official NOC description. For example:

If you are a Store Manager, your duties should include: Planning and directing operations, Conducting market research, Budgeting and financial oversight. Duties such as selling products or performing customer service do not qualify as management responsibilities and may jeopardize your spouse’s Open Work Permit eligibility.

Common Reasons for SOWP Refusals

Many SOWP refusals occur due to incorrect NOC selection or mismatched job duties, especially when:

●       Job duties overlap between two NOC codes

●       Duties do not reflect the official TEER classification of the role

Visa officers review applications carefully, and even small inconsistencies can result in a refusal of spousal work permit eligibility.

Determining the right NOC is critical to ensure your spouse qualifies for an Open Work Permit. Expert guidance can help you:

●       Match your duties with the official NOC description

●       Verify the correct TEER category

●       Avoid common errors that lead to refusals

If you are planning to sponsor your spouse through a TEER 0 or 1 job, professional guidance can make all the difference.

Book your first free in-person appointment with A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation to:

●       Verify your NOC and TEER classification

●       Align job duties with official requirements

●       Maximize the likelihood of spousal work permit approval

A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation has extensive experience helping applicants navigate TEER classifications, NOC selection, and SOWP applications, ensuring your immigration process is smooth and compliant.

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About The Author

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Dr. Muhammad Abrar

Barrister & Solicitor

From temporary status to PR, get expert legal help to choose the right immigration pathway.

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