To combat and solve the problem of chronic lobar shortage, Canada is extending work permits to family members of the main applicants in TFWP (Temporary Foreign Workers) and IMP (International Mobility) programs.
To be eligible for this new measure, the work permit holder must:work in any jobs in TEER categories 0 to 5 or be the principal applicant and have an open work permit or be an economic class permanent resident applicant and hold a work permit.
Previously, work permits were only issued to spouses and family members of the main applicants in high-skilled occupations. Please note that spouses, dependent children and common-law partners of those listed in TEER 4 or 5 occupations under the low-wage stream for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program are not eligible to apply for this new measure.
The proposed measure will continue for two years and families of workers in healthcare, trades and hospitality are included.
This temporary measure is supposed to be implemented in three phases. The dates for phases two and three, however, will be announced in future.The second phase is for family members of foreign workers in low-wage stream of TFWP.The third phase is to expand the measure to family members of agricultural workers (if it is feasible).
2025 Update—Canada is making some important changes to work permit rules for family members of temporary foreign workers and international students. Starting January 21, 2025, the eligibility criteria for open work permits will be more limited than before. These changes are part of the government’s effort to manage temporary immigration levels while still addressing labor shortages in key industries.
Who Can Still Apply for an Open Work Permit?
- Spouses of Foreign Workers: They must be married to or be in a common-law relationship with someone working in a TEER 0 or 1 job or in specific TEER 2 or 3 occupations that are in high demand. The foreign worker must also have at least 16 months left on their work permit when their spouse applies.
- Spouses of International Students: Only those whose partner is studying in a master’s or doctoral program (or select professional programs) can apply. Shorter programs no longer meet the criteria.
- Dependent Children: Kids of foreign workers will no longer qualify for an open work permit under the new rules.
What Happens to Existing Permits?
If a work permit was already approved before January 21, 2025, it remains valid until it expires. Those who already have one may be able to renew it, but they’ll have to meet the updated requirements. Renewals will also be limited to the same time frame as the main applicant’s permit.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Some groups won’t be affected by these changes. Spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements and those applying for permanent residency can still apply as before. If someone no longer qualifies for an open work permit, they may need to explore other visa options.
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