Canada Open Work Permit Changes for Family Members

Key Points

  • Effective 21 January 2025, Canada introduced new eligibility criteria for family open work permits  

Changes to Open Work Permits for Family Members 

Effective 21 January 2025, Canada will only allow spouses of certain international students and foreign workers to apply for a family open work permits (OWP). These categories include:  

  • International Students: Only spouses of students in master’s programs (16+ months), doctoral programs, or select professional programs can apply. 
  • Foreign Workers: Only spouses of workers in TEER 0 or 1 occupations or certain TEER 2 or 3 occupations with labor shortages or government priorities. The full list will be available on 21 January 2025. 

Additional Requirements: 

  • When applying, foreign workers must have at least 16 months left on their work permit. 
  • Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible. 

Existing OWPs: 

  • Current OWPs remain valid. 
  • In-country family members can renew their permits under the same criteria and for the same duration as the principal applicant’s permit. 

Exemptions: 

  • Spouses of workers under free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence are not affected. 
  • Family members who no longer qualify can apply for other eligible work permits. 

These changes build off previous changes announced in September 2024.


 

Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., or another qualified professional of your choosing. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult your Envoy representative, or another qualified representative of your choosing.