Canada has announced significant changes to its Open Work Permit (OWP) policy, which came into effect on January 21, 2025. The new framework narrows eligibility for spouses and dependents of temporary foreign workers and international students, aiming to align immigration policies with labour market needs and strengthen program integrity.
Key Changes
Under the revised rules, dependent children of temporary foreign workers are no longer eligible for open work permits through the family stream. In addition, spouses or common-law partners will only qualify if the principal foreign worker is employed in a high-skilled occupation under TEER 0 or 1, or in certain TEER 2 and 3 occupations that are considered essential. For international students, only those enrolled in eligible graduate or professional programs, such as master’s and doctoral studies, will allow their spouses to apply for OWPs.
Another important condition requires the foreign worker’s permit to have at least 16 months remaining at the time of the spouse’s application.
Who Remains Eligible
Spouses of highly skilled foreign workers, partners of international students in approved advanced programs, post-graduation work permit holders, and individuals with refugee or protected status continue to be eligible for OWPs. Those who already hold valid open work permits under the previous rules will not be affected until their permits expire.
Implications
The changes are expected to impact many families who had planned to relocate together under more flexible policies. Experts suggest that spouses and dependents now have fewer pathways to enter Canada with work authorization, and may need to consider alternative options. At the same time, the government emphasizes that the move will help address labour shortages in critical sectors while ensuring immigration programs remain effective and sustainable.
