Get The Visibility Your Company Needs
Reduce compliance risks and mobility costs while managing individual and project-related travel with ImmiSMART: the solution that unifies your travel and mobility programs.
CANADA – Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents.
January 17, 2025
By: Nouran Hassan, Legal Administrative Assistant, Newland Chase Canada
The Government of Canada is updating the eligibility criteria for open work permits (OWP) for family members of international students and foreign workers.
Effective January 21, 2025, only spouses of international students in specific programs (master’s programs lasting 16 months or longer, doctoral programs, and certain professional programs) will be eligible for a family OWP. Similarly, spouses of foreign workers in select high-demand occupations (TEER 0, 1, or certain TEER 2 and 3 jobs in sectors such as healthcare, construction, and natural sciences) can also apply. The full list will be announced on January 25, 2025. Additionally, foreign workers must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time of application.
Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for family OWPs, though existing permits remain valid until they expire. Family members may also apply to renew permits under current criteria.
Spouses of workers under free-trade agreements or transitioning to permanent residence are not affected by these changes.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry here should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
