As per the latest policy update released by IRCC on January 14, 2025, Canada has introduced changes to the Open Work Permit (OWP) policy for family members of temporary residents. The details are as follows:
The Canadian government aims to enhance the integrity and quality of temporary resident programs while meeting national economic goals and labor market demands.
These changes will take effect from January 21, 2025.
Only spouses of international students who are enrolled in a master’s program of at least 16 months, a PhD program, or specific designated programs and eligible courses will qualify for a family OWP.
Only spouses of foreign workers in:
This includes sectors such as natural and applied sciences, construction, healthcare, natural resources, education, sports, and military. A full list will be published on January 21, 2025.Additionally, for a foreign worker's spouse to apply for an OWP, the worker must have at least 16 months of validity remaining on their work permit at the time of application.
Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible to apply for a family OWP.
OWPs that have already been approved and remain valid will continue to be effective.
Family members (spouses and dependent children) who are currently in Canada can apply for OWP renewal under the following conditions:
The following groups will not be affected by these changes:
Family members who no longer qualify for a family OWP under the new policy may apply for other work permits under Canada’s existing work permit programs, provided they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
