As part of broader policy updates announced in September 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is revising eligibility criteria for family open work permits (OWPs) for spouses of international students and foreign workers.

Starting January 21, 2025, only specific categories of spouses will qualify for family OWPs. Eligible spouses of international students must be enrolled in:

• Master’s programs lasting 16 months or more
• Doctoral programs
• Select professional or qualifying programs

For foreign workers, family OWPs will apply to spouses employed in:

• TEER 0 or 1 roles
• Certain TEER 2 or 3 positions in sectors facing labor shortages or linked to government priorities, including fields such as applied sciences, construction, healthcare, natural resources, education, sports, and the military.

Additionally, the worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit when their spouse applies. Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer qualify.

Existing OWPs approved under previous rules will remain valid, and family members in Canada may renew their permits under the same conditions. Spouses covered by free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence will not be affected by these updates.