Changes to Family Open Work Permit (OWP) Program (Effective January 21, 2025)

Eligibility Changes for Spouses:

1. 1. Only spouses of certain international students and foreign workers can apply for a family OWP.

1. 2. Eligible international students must be enrolled in:
   1. • Master’s programs (16 months or longer),
      • Doctoral programs, or
      • Select professional/eligible programs.

3. Eligible foreign workers must be employed in:

1. • TEER 0 or 1 occupations, or
   • Specific TEER 2 or 3 occupations in sectors with labor shortages or government priorities (list available January 21, 2025).

Additional Conditions for Foreign Workers:

• The foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit when their spouse applies for the OWP.

Changes for Dependent Children:

• Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for OWPs.

Renewals for Current Permit Holders:

• Existing OWPs approved under previous rules remain valid.
• Family members in Canada can renew their work permits if:
  • They meet the same criteria as the current permit.
  • The renewal matches the duration of the principal applicant’s study or work permit.

Exemptions:

• Spouses of workers under free-trade agreements or those transitioning to permanent residence are unaffected.

Reference: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/changes-open-work-permits-family-members-temporary-residents.html