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.

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