The policy changes officially take effect starting January 21
The federal government has announced changes to open work permit (OWP) eligibility for family members of international students and foreign workers.
According to the government, the revised policy, which took effect on January 21, aims to strengthen temporary resident programs while supporting Canada's economic goals and addressing labour market demands.
Under the new rules, only spouses of certain international students and foreign workers can apply for a family OWP. Spouses of international students qualify when the student enrolls in a master's program lasting 16 months or longer, pursues a doctoral degree, or participates in select professional and eligible programs. Spouses of foreign workers qualify when the worker holds a job classified under Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) 0 or 1 or works in designated TEER 2 or 3 roles in sectors facing labour shortages or aligned with government priorities. These sectors include natural sciences, construction, health care, natural resources, education, sports, and the military.
Foreign workers must also have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time of their spouse's application for the OWP. The changes exclude dependent children of foreign workers, who will no longer qualify for family OWPs.
Work permits issued under previous policies will remain valid until their expiration. In cases where students require more time to complete their programs or family members receive shorter permits than the principal applicant, those already in Canada can renew their permits. Such renewals must align with the criteria of the original license and match the duration of the principal applicant's extended permit.
The changes do not affect spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements or those transitioning to permanent residence. Family members who are no longer eligible for a family OWP under the updated rules can explore other work permit options available through Canada's immigration programs.
According to the government, these adjustments aim to support the integrity of temporary resident programs while addressing specific economic and labour priorities. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that a complete list of eligible occupations and programs will be published to provide additional clarity. The government encourages affected individuals to review the updated guidelines and determine their options under the revised system.
