IRCC has just made a formal announcement regarding Open Work Permit (OWP) eligibility for accompanying family members of work permit and study permit holders which will come into effect on January 21, 2025. Here are the details:

Spouses of Foreign Workers

Starting January 21, 2025, spouses of foreign workers will only qualify for an Open Spousal Work Permit if:

1. Their spouse’s occupation:

  • Falls under TEER 0 or 1, OR
  • Is one of the select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in sectors with labor shortages or positions aligned with government priorities.
  • Note: The full list of eligible occupations under TEER 2 and 3 will be available on January 21, 2025.

2. Their spouse’s work permit:

  • Must have at least 16 months remaining at the time the spousal OWP application is submitted.

Exceptions:

  • Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements are not affected.
  • Spouses transitioning to permanent residence remain eligible for OWPs.

Dependent Children of Foreign Workers

Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for work permits under the family open work permit program. 

Spouses of International Students

Spouses of international students can apply for an OWP only if their spouse is enrolled in one of the following programs: 

Existing Spousal Work Permits

Existing spousal work permits will continue to be valid until their expiration. Existing spousal work permits can only be renewed if: 

  • The spouse’s work permit is going to expire before the principal applicant’s work or study permit AND the spouse is only applying to extend it to the duration of the principal applicant’s work or study permit. 
  • The spouse is applying for the extension under the same criteria as their current work permit.

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