Introduction

Starting in January 2025, the Government of Canada will implement new changes to the policies regarding Family Open Work Permits. These changes, aimed at better managing the number of temporary immigrants and addressing housing and cost-of-living challenges, will affect the spouses and families of international students and foreign workers. In this article, we will explore the details of these changes and their implications.

Key Changes to Family Open Work Permits

For International Students

Under the new policy:

Only the spouses or common-law partners of students enrolled in master’s degree programs of at least 16 months, doctoral programs, or specific professional programs will be eligible for a Family Open Work Permit. Students in programs shorter than 16 months will no longer be able to offer this benefit to their spouses.

Eligible professional programs include:

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
• Doctor of Medicine (MD)
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB, JD)
• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)
• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)

For Foreign Workers

Spouses or common-law partners of foreign workers will only be eligible for a Family Open Work Permit if the worker is employed in one of the following occupations:

• TEER level 0 and 1 jobs
• Selected TEER level 2 and 3 jobs in the fields of:
  • Natural and applied sciences
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Sports
  • Military

Additional Requirement:

The foreign worker must have at least 16 months of validity remaining on their work permit.

Impact on Dependent Children

According to the new policy, dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for Family Open Work Permits.

Extension of Existing Permits

Family Open Work Permits issued before these changes will remain valid. If the permit’s validity is shorter than the sponsor’s study or work permit, it may still be extended.

Purpose of the New Changes

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced these changes as part of broader reforms in immigration policy. The goal is to reduce the number of temporary residents—including students and foreign workers—and ease economic and social pressures caused by the housing shortage in Canada.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has projected that these changes will lead to a reduction of 50,000 to 100,000 Open Work Permits issued over the next three years.

Benefits of Open Work Permits in Canada

• Freedom to work anywhere in Canada for most employers
• No need for a specific job offer or LMIA
• Greater flexibility compared to closed work permits

Who Is Not Affected by These Changes?

• Spouses or partners of foreign workers employed under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
• Spouses or partners being sponsored for permanent residency by a Canadian citizen

Conclusion

The new restrictions on Family Open Work Permits reflect Canada’s focus on improving the management of temporary immigration and addressing social and economic challenges. If you are considering applying for a Family Open Work Permit or want to assess your eligibility, consulting with an immigration lawyer can help you make informed decisions.

FAQs

Do these changes affect previously issued permits?
No, existing permits remain valid and can be extended.

Which international student programs are still eligible?
Doctoral programs, long-term master’s programs, and specific professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, and engineering.

For more information or to receive free consultation, feel free to contact us.