January 15,2025
New Open Work Permit Rules for Family Members of Temporary Residents Starting January 21, 2025
On January 21, 2025, the Government of Canada will implement significant changes to the eligibility criteria for open work permits (OWPs) for family members of temporary residents. These adjustments aim to enhance the integrity of temporary resident programs while addressing the country's economic and labour market needs.
There will be a strategic shift in the immigration policies under the new regulations.
Who Will Be Eligible for Family Open Work Permits?
Effective January 21, 2025, access to family OWPs will be restricted primarily to spouses of certain international students and foreign workers; the eligibility will be limited to:
Spouses of International Students:
- Enrolled in master's programs (16 months or longer)
- Pursuing doctoral degrees
- Studying in select professional or other eligible programs
Spouses of Foreign Workers:
- Working in TEER 0 or 1 occupations (high-skilled jobs).
- Employed in select TEER 2 or 3 occupations linked to labour shortages or government priorities include:
- Natural and applied sciences.
- Construction.
- Health care.
- Natural resources.
- Education.
- Sports and military sectors.
Please note that the complete list will be available only on January 21, 2025.
Additional Requirements
- The foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time of application for the OWP by their spouse.
- Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for family OWPs.
Impact on Current Permits
- OWPs approved under previous measures will remain valid until they expire.
- If students need more time to complete their programs, family members can apply to renew their work permits if they meet specific conditions related to the principal applicant's permit.
Who is Exempted?
- Spouses of Workers covered by Free Trade Agreements
- Family members transitioning to Permanent Residence
- Current OWPs approved under previous measures will remain valid until expiration.
Furthermore, family members who do not qualify for a family OWP can seek any other work permit for which they are eligible under Canada's work permit programs.
For further reading, check: Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents