Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents

This site is not an official Government of Canada website. It is not affiliated with the Service Canada Passport office. For official information, visit Canada.ca/passport

Travel advice and advisories by destination

Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents

The Government of Canada is reinforcing the integrity and quality of its temporary resident programs while aligning them with the country’s economic and labor market priorities. As part of broader policy changes announced in September 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is updating the eligibility criteria for open work permits (OWPs) for family members of international students and foreign workers. Effective January 21, 2025, only spouses of specific international students and foreign workers will be eligible to apply for a family OWP. Eligible international students must be enrolled in master’s programs lasting 16 months or longer, doctoral programs, or select professional and designated programs. Similarly, spouses of foreign workers must meet employment criteria, including working in TEER 0 or 1 occupations or select TEER 2 or 3 roles in sectors facing labor shortages or tied to government priorities, such as healthcare, construction, education, and natural resources. Additionally, foreign workers must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permits at the time of their spouse’s application. Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer qualify for OWPs.

OWPs issued under previous policies will remain valid until their expiration. Family members in Canada who need to renew their permits due to a program extension or shorter validity than the principal applicant may do so, provided they meet the same eligibility criteria as their current permit and align the renewal duration with the principal applicant’s study or work permit. Spouses of workers covered under free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residency will not be affected by these changes. Family members who no longer qualify for a family OWP can still apply for any other work permit they may be eligible for under Canada’s existing work permit programs. The full list of eligible occupations will be available on January 21, 2025.

Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents

You can now check the walk-in wait times at Passport Canada offices only

More Read: 4 quick steps to speak to Passport Canada agent

Recommended Read: Canada Dental Benefit Program

If you want to learn more about the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), including who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when payments are issued, visit Tax Service Canada’s Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Guide. This comprehensive resource explains the eligibility requirements, payment amounts for individuals and families, application details for new residents, and important CRA payment dates. With the CGEB replacing the GST/HST Credit in July 2026 and providing increased support to millions of Canadians, staying informed can help ensure you receive every benefit you are entitled to.

If you receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), now is the time to ensure your benefits continue without interruption. GIS eligibility is reviewed annually, and failing to file your income tax return or complete any required renewal steps could result in your payments being reduced or stopped starting in July 2026. Service Canada uses your most recent income information to determine your eligibility and payment amount for the 2026–2027 benefit year. To avoid delays or disruptions to your monthly GIS payments, review the renewal requirements today. Visit the GIS Renewal page for a complete guide and important updates.

Never miss an Old Age Security payment by bookmarking our dedicated 2026 OAS Payment Schedule page today. Managing your retirement budget is much easier when you know exactly when your funds will arrive in your account. By saving this link, you’ll have instant, one-click access to the most up-to-date distribution dates and any schedule adjustments throughout the year. Stay organized and gain peace of mind by keeping this essential resource right at your fingertips. Bookmark us now and ensure you’re always prepared for your upcoming monthly payments!