Outland spousal sponsorship while wife is in Canada — SOWP eligibility and processing time vs inland?
My wife is a US citizen entering Canada on visitor status and I'm planning to file spousal sponsorship right away. Based on research I've done, outland seems like the better route — faster PR (16 months vs 25 months), appeal rights if refused, and travel flexibility.
My main questions:
Is she eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) under the SCLPC FC public policy if we go outland, given she'll be physically living in Canada with me on valid visitor status?
If yes, is the SOWP processing time the same as it would be under inland sponsorship, or does it take longer outland?
Any real experience with outland + SOWP while spouse is physically in Canada? How long did the work permit actually take?
The official IRCC page says "spouse living in Canada being sponsored for PR" without specifying inland only, and the form code says "SCLPC FC OWP" — FC covering Family Class (outland). But some consultants still say outland can't get the SOWP, which contradicts the government page.
She is trying to work as soon as she can so what would be the fastest route while waiting for our application ?
We're in Ontario if that matters.
Thanks in advance for your help