Canada’s New Rules for Spouses and Dependents: What They Mean and How to Navigate Them
As of January 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented significant changes to the eligibility criteria for open work permits (OWPs) for spouses and dependents of international students and foreign workers. These adjustments aim to align immigration policies with labor market needs and manage the number of temporary residents in Canada.
Key Changes to Open Work Permit Eligibility
For Spouses of International Students
Spouses or common-law partners are now eligible for an OWP only if the international student is enrolled in:
- A master’s program lasting 16 months or longer
- A doctoral (PhD) program
- Select professional degree programs, such as:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BN, BNSc)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
Spouses of students in shorter programs, diplomas, or non-professional degrees are no longer eligible for OWPs under the new rules.
For Spouses of Foreign Workers
Eligibility for an OWP is now limited to spouses of foreign workers who:
- Are employed in TEER 0 or 1 occupations, which include management and professional roles
- Work in select TEER 2 or 3 occupations within sectors experiencing labor shortages or aligned with government priorities, such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Natural resources
- Education
- Sports and military sectors
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time the spouse applies for an OWP.
For Dependent Children
Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for open work permits under the new regulations.
Alternative Pathways for Dependents Seeking to Work in Canada
If you or your family members are affected by these changes, consider the following alternatives:
Employer-Specific Work Permits: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer who can support a work permit application, potentially through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Study Permits: Enroll in an eligible educational program in Canada, which may provide a pathway to work opportunities during and after studies.
Permanent Residency Programs: Explore immigration streams that lead to permanent residency, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry, which may offer work authorization for spouses and dependents.
Trade Agreement Provisions: If the principal applicant’s work permit is under a free-trade agreement (e.g., CUSMA, Peru, Chile, TPP and many others), spouses may still be eligible for an OWP regardless of occupation.
How Elliott Immigration Corporation Can Assist You
With extensive expertise and experience I study permit applications and the Canadian education system, we can guide you to a successful application. The increase in scrutiny of study permit applications means it’s crucial to present a comprehensive and honest application. Ensuring financial transparency, demonstrating strong ties to your home country, and providing a detailed Letter of Explanation can significantly enhance your chances of approval.
Get in touch with us today!
📩 Email: contact@canadianimmigrationpartners.com
📞 Phone: 647-557-2288
🧑💼 Consultation: www.canadianimmigrationpartners.com/consultation/
