Canada Updates Open Work Permit Rules: Here’s Who Will Be Affected

Canada Updates Open Work Permit Rules: Here’s Who Will Be Affected

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have revealed important modifications to the eligibility standards for open work permits (OWPs) for family members of international students and temporary foreign workers, set to take effect on January 21, 2025. These modifications are intended to better align temporary resident programs with Canada’s economic goals and address workforce demands.

The updated regulations follow a government announcement in September 2024 that aims to decrease the number of international students and temporary residents in Canada.

This includes a 10% reduction in study permit approvals for 2025 (from 485,000 in 2024 to 437,000) and new language proficiency standards for Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP) effective November 1, 2024.

Key Changes:

Spouses of International Students: Will qualify for an OWP only if the primary applicant is enrolled in a master’s program (lasting 16 months or longer), a doctoral program, or specific professional programs (detailed information will be available on January 21, 2025).
Spouses of foreign workers Must fulfill more stringent requirements: The principal applicant must be employed in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation or specific TEER 2 or 3 roles in sectors facing labor shortages (such as healthcare, construction, and natural resources).
The foreign worker should also have a minimum of 16 months remaining on their work permit.

Dependent Children

Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for family OWPs.

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Impact on Existing Permits

Open work permits issued before January 21, 2025, will continue to be valid until they expire. Renewals may be available to those who comply with the new eligibility requirements and align their renewal periods with the principal applicant’s study or work permit.

Exceptions:

The updates do not apply to spouses of workers under free trade agreements or those transitioning to permanent residency. Individuals not qualifying for family OWPs can look into other work permit alternatives.

Looking Forward:

Families should ensure that the principal applicant’s program or occupation meets the revised criteria, confirm that the principal applicant has a valid work permit (with at least 16 months remaining), and watch official sources for the complete list of qualifying TEER 2 and 3 occupations, which will be released on January 21, 2025.

These changes signify Canada’s intent to balance economic requirements with sustainable immigration levels. The government is emphasizing positions that cannot be filled by Canadians while aiming to lower the temporary resident population as part of the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan.

Although family OWPs are restricted, the government underscores the need for long-term planning for those aspiring to study and work in Canada.