- Stricter eligibility for spouses of international students and foreign workers.
- Family work permits limited to specific programs and in-demand sectors.
- Processing times may increase with new criteria and documentation requirements.
Starting January 21, 2025, Canada will introduce stricter eligibility rules for spouses applying for Open Work Permits (OWPs) under the Family Work Open Permit (FWOP) program.
For spouses of foreign workers, eligibility will be more limited. Work permits will now only be available to spouses of workers in TEER 0, 1, or selected TEER 2 and 3 occupations.
What You Need to Know About Canada’s New Work Permit Rules for Families
Canada’s immigration policies are shifting, particularly for spouses of foreign workers and international students. Starting January 21, 2025, the Family Work Open Permit program will see significant changes. International students and foreign workers will face stricter eligibility for their spouses to receive work permits. Specifically, students enrolled in shorter programs will not be eligible, narrowing access primarily to those enrolled in extended academic programs like master’s degrees or doctoral courses.
Spouses of workers will also face tighter criteria. The new rules will restrict open work permits to those in specific high-demand sectors such as healthcare, education, and construction. Foreign workers employed in TEER 0, 1, or selected TEER 2 and 3 occupations will be prioritized, making it essential for spouses to meet these stringent qualifications.
The changes come as Canada aims to address labor shortages in key industries while aligning its immigration policies with national economic priorities. While these measures may help fill crucial gaps in the workforce, they also represent a major shift in how work permits are granted to spouses of both foreign workers and international students.
Applicants should expect longer processing times as the new regulations require more extensive documentation. However, those who were already eligible under previous criteria may continue to receive their permits under the old rules, providing a smoother transition for current applicants.
The upcoming changes to Canada’s work permit policies will tighten eligibility for spouses of foreign workers and international students but aim to address labor shortages in key sectors. These adjustments represent a shift toward more targeted immigration practices.
“Canada’s new policies for open work permits aim to balance economic priorities with labor needs, ensuring that foreign workers and students are supported by qualified spouses.”
