On January 14, 2025, the Government of Canada implemented significant changes to open work permit (OWP) eligibility for family members of temporary residents. Starting January 21, 2025, only certain family members of international students and foreign workers will be eligible for OWPs. The new policy includes spouses of students enrolled in master’s (16+ months), doctoral, or selected professional programs. Similarly, only spouses of foreign workers in specific occupational categories, including healthcare, construction, and natural sciences, will qualify for OWPs if the worker has at least 16 months remaining on their permit. Notably, dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for these permits.
