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Big changes are coming to Canada’s family Open Work Permit (OWP) policies. Starting January 21, 2025, stricter rules will limit who can apply for these permits, impacting international students and foreign workers.

Key Updates:

πŸ‘©β€πŸŽ“ For International Students:

  • Spouses or common-law partners will only qualify if the student is enrolled in:
    • Master’s programs (16+ months long)
    • Doctoral programs
    • Specific professional/eligible programs (to be listed).

Previously, program duration wasn’t a factor, but now it’s a must for SOWP eligibility.

πŸ‘·β€β™‚οΈ For Foreign Workers:

  • Eligibility is restricted to spouses or partners of workers in:
    • TEER 0 and 1 jobs
    • Select TEER 2 & 3 jobs in healthcare, construction, education, and more.

Dependents of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for OWPs. Additionally, the foreign worker must have 16+ months left on their work permit when their spouse applies.

A detailed list of eligible TEER 2 and 3 jobs will be available on the IRCC website on January 21, 2025.

These changes aim to streamline the system but may pose challenges for families. πŸ’” What are your thoughts? Let us know! 🌟