Canada has tightened open work permit rules for families, limiting eligibility to spouses of certain foreign workers. Dependent children no longer qualify. This change impacts many families and future immigrants. We also explore Ontario’s rural immigration efforts and the inspiring journey of a top French chef in Canada.
Are you planning to bring your family to Canada on an open work permit? New rules introduced on January 21, 2025, have changed who qualifies. Spouses of certain foreign workers and international students remain eligible, but dependent children no longer qualify. Here’s what you need to know.
Key Takeaways
New Eligibility Rules: Only spouses of specific foreign workers and students qualify for open work permits.
Children Excluded: Dependent children can no longer apply for open work permits.
TEER Occupation Limits: Only workers in TEER 0, 1, and some TEER 2 and 3 jobs in priority sectors qualify.
Canada has narrowed the eligibility for open work permits (OWPs) for family members of foreign workers and students. Previously, spouses and dependent children could apply, but the new policy restricts OWPs to spouses of workers in high-demand occupations and students in specific programs.
Spouses of Foreign Workers: The principal worker must be employed in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation or in select TEER 2 and 3 sectors, including healthcare, construction, education, natural resources, sports, and the military.
Spouses of International Students: The student must be enrolled in a Master’s program (16+ months), a Doctoral program, or a select professional program.
This shift aims to control the number of temporary residents entering the workforce while ensuring that high-demand industries retain skilled professionals. Dependent children, who were previously eligible, must now seek alternative visa options. See how Canada’s immigration policies are evolving in 2025.
Families who applied for OWPs before January 21, 2025, will have their applications processed under the old rules. Existing permits remain valid until their expiry date. However, those who planned to apply now face new restrictions. This change could impact family unity and financial stability, particularly for families who relied on dual incomes. Discover how some open work permits have been extended until 2026.
For workers seeking permanent residency, the new rules may influence their decision to stay in Canada long-term. The principal applicant must now have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit when their spouse applies. This requirement makes planning essential for families considering their options.
Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements (e.g., NAFTA/CUSMA) are not affected.
Spouses of foreign workers transitioning to permanent residency remain eligible for OWPs.
Canada’s new policy marks a significant shift in how foreign workers can bring their families. If you’re affected, exploring permanent residency options or alternative work permits is crucial. AskAïa can help you navigate these changes and find the best path forward. Check your eligibility today.
Thunder Bay is leveraging the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) to attract skilled workers and support local economic growth. This program helps employers fill labor shortages while providing newcomers with a path to permanent residency. By targeting specific workforce needs, Thunder Bay aims to enhance regional development and sustainability.
Jean-Luc Boulay, a French immigrant, has transformed Canada’s culinary scene since 1976. Founder of Le Saint-Amour and Chez Boulay, he champions local ingredients and Nordic cuisine. As a Master Chef of France and a TV judge, his impact goes beyond the kitchen—elevating Quebec’s food culture and inspiring a new generation of chefs. His journey showcases how immigration enriches Canada’s gastronomic identity.