The Government of Canada has announced significant changes to its Family Open Work Permit (OWP) policy, which will come into effect on January 21, 2025. These restrictions are part of broader reforms aimed at addressing housing and affordability challenges in the country. Below, we break down the key details and explore how these changes may impact international students, foreign workers, and their families.
Key Changes to Family OWPs for International Students
Effective January 21, 2025, the eligibility criteria for spouses or common-law partners of international students to obtain a Family OWP will be significantly narrowed. Spouses will only qualify if the international student is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- Master’s programs lasting at least 16 months.
- Doctoral programs.
- Select professional and eligible programs (listed below).
Before this policy change, spouses of students in any Master’s program were eligible for a Family OWP, regardless of program duration.
Eligible Professional Programs for Family OWPs:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS/DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- Bachelor of Nursing (BN)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
Restrictions on Family OWPs for Foreign Workers
Spouses or common-law partners of foreign workers will face new eligibility criteria as well. They will qualify for Family OWPs only if the foreign worker is employed in:
- TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations.
- Select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in fields such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Natural resources
- Education
- Sports
- Military sectors
The foreign worker must also have at least 16 months remaining validity on their work permit at the time of the spouse’s application.
Important Note: Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for Family OWPs under this revised policy.
Renewing Existing OWPs
For families with existing OWPs issued under previous rules, these permits will remain valid until their expiration date. Spouses and children already in Canada may apply to renew their work permits, provided the new permit duration aligns with the sponsoring permit holder’s remaining validity.
Exemptions to the New Restrictions
Certain groups remain unaffected by these changes, including:
- Spouses or common-law partners of workers covered by Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
- Spouses or common-law partners being sponsored for Permanent Residence (PR) by their Canadian partners, provided they already have temporary legal status in Canada.
Context Behind the Changes
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) first announced these policy changes in September 2024. The government’s goal is to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada, helping alleviate the country’s housing and affordability crisis. According to Immigration Minister Marc Miller, these restrictions are expected to result in 50,000 fewer OWPs for spouses of international students and 100,000 fewer OWPs for spouses of foreign workers over the next three years.
Advantages of Open Work Permits
Open Work Permits (OWPs) offer significant flexibility for newcomers, allowing them to:
- Work anywhere in Canada.
- Seek employment in most industries without being tied to a specific employer.
- Avoid the limitations of closed work permits, which often require employer sponsorship or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
How ICC Immigration Can Support Your Canadian Journey
Navigating these new restrictions can be challenging, but ICC Immigration is here to guide you every step of the way. With a proven track record of helping clients achieve their immigration goals, our experienced consultants can assist you in exploring pathways that align with your long-term plans.
Our Services Include:
- Permanent Residency Applications:
- Seamlessly navigate programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other PR pathways to secure your future in Canada.
- Work and Study Permits:
- Explore temporary options to advance your career or education, setting the stage for a smooth PR application process.
- Family Sponsorships:
- Reunite with your loved ones in Canada and help them secure PR status.
- Expert Legal Advice:
- Avoid common pitfalls with professional guidance tailored to the complexities of Canada’s immigration policies.
Why Choose ICC Immigration?
By opting for ICC Immigration, you’ll benefit from:
- Personalized consultations to identify the most suitable programs for you and your family.
- Transparent communication and support throughout the application process.
- A dedicated team committed to helping you achieve your Canadian dream.
Take control of your future by choosing stability and a clear path to success. Contact ICC Immigration today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your options.