IRCC to implement restrictions on family Open Work Permits in January 2025

The Canadian immigration system is undergoing important changes that will affect the eligibility for family open work permits (OWPs) for international students and foreign workers. These changes, announced in September 2024, will be implemented on January 21, 2025. If you are planning to apply for Canada immigration or seeking assistance with work permits, understanding these updates is crucial. In this blog, we’ll break down these changes and explain how they could impact your family and work plans in Canada.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of the New Family Open Work Permit (OWP) Restrictions
  2. Changes for International Students
  3. How Foreign Workers Are Affected
  4. Educational Programs That Qualify for Family OWPs
  5. Who is Not Affected by These Changes
  6. A Broader Immigration Reform Strategy
  7. Advantages of an Open Work Permit (OWP)
  8. Why Choose Wave Visas, the Best Immigration Consultant in Delhi

Overview of the New Family Open Work Permit (OWP) Restrictions.

Starting January 21, 2025, the Canadian government will introduce stricter eligibility criteria for family open work permits (OWPs). These permits allow spouses or common-law partners of international students and foreign workers to work in Canada. The new regulations aim to focus on high-skill occupations and reduce the overall number of temporary residents. The government anticipates these measures will lead to a reduction of 50,000 to 100,000 fewer permits over the next three years.

Changes for International Students.

As part of these changes, family open work permits will only be available for the spouses or common-law partners of international students enrolled in:

  • Master’s programs that are 16 months or longer in duration
  • Doctoral programs
  • Select professional and eligible programs (as outlined below)

Previously, international students only needed to be enrolled in a Master’s program for their spouse to qualify for an open work permit, regardless of the program’s duration. Now, students must be enrolled in longer, more specialized programs for their spouse to be eligible for a family OWP.

How Foreign Workers Are Affected.

For foreign workers, the eligibility for family open work permits will be limited to spouses or common-law partners of those employed in specific occupations. These include:

  • TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations (highly skilled jobs)
  • Select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in the following sectors:
    • Natural and applied sciences
    • Construction
    • Healthcare
    • Natural resources
    • Education
    • Sports
    • Military sectors

Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months of validity remaining on their work permit at the time their spouse applies for the OWP.

Educational Programs That Qualify for Family OWPs.

While the new restrictions will affect many programs, international students enrolled in the following programs will still be eligible to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for a family OWP:

  • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS DMD)
  • Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  • Doctor of Optometry (OD)
  • Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN)
  • Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
  • Bachelor of Nursing (BN)
  • Bachelor of Education (BEd)
  • Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)

Students in these programs will continue to be able to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for a family open work permit, even though other Master’s programs may no longer qualify.

Who is Not Affected by These Changes .

Certain groups will remain unaffected by these changes:

  • Spouses of workers covered by free trade agreements (FTAs) are exempt from these new restrictions.
  • Spouses or common-law partners who are being sponsored for permanent residence (PR) in Canada may still apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) if they already have legal temporary status in Canada.

A Broader Immigration Reform Strategy.

These changes to the family open work permit eligibility criteria are part of a broader suite of reforms announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The goal is to manage the growing number of temporary residents in the country, especially in light of concerns about housing supply and affordability. The government predicts that these changes will lead to a reduction of 50,000 to 100,000 fewer permits issued over the next three years.

Advantages of an Open Work Permit (OWP).

The family open work permit offers several benefits to spouses or common-law partners of international students and foreign workers:

  • Flexibility to work anywhere in Canada: Unlike employer-specific work permits, OWPs are not tied to a particular employer, offering more job opportunities.
  • Pre-determined validity period: The validity of an OWP is typically determined in advance, making it easier to plan for long-term employment in Canada.
  • Broad eligibility: Most employers in most industries can hire OWP holders, providing flexibility in choosing a job.

For many newcomers to Canada, an OWP is highly sought after due to its flexibility and broad work opportunities.

Why Choose Wave Visas, the Best Immigration Consultant in Delhi.

If you're considering Canada immigration, navigating these new restrictions and the overall immigration process can be complex. This is where Wave Visas, recognized as the best immigration consultant in Delhi, can make all the difference. Our team of visa experts is well-versed in the latest Canadian immigration policies and can guide you through the entire process.

Whether you need assistance with work permits, study permits, or permanent residency applications, Wave Visas offers expert advice and personalized support. As a trusted Wave Immigration Consultant, we ensure that all your applications are submitted correctly and efficiently, minimizing the chances of delays or rejections.

If you're planning to move to Canada or need advice on the family open work permit process, don't hesitate to contact Wave Visas today for professional guidance.

Conclusion

The Canada immigration landscape is evolving, and understanding the new eligibility requirements for family open work permits is crucial for international students and foreign workers planning to bring their spouses or common-law partners to Canada. Whether you're looking to apply for a work permit or navigate other aspects of the immigration process, working with a reliable and experienced consultant like Wave Visas—the best immigration consultant in Delhi—can help streamline your journey. Contact us today to get expert advice and make your Canadian dream a reality.

Corporate Office : 2nd Floor, Right Side, Building №5, Kehar Singh Estate Westend Marg, Lane №2, Saidulajab, Saket New Delhi 110030.

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