Spouses of international students and temporary workers in Canada are facing significant changes to their eligibility for work permits. The Canadian immigration department, IRCC, recently announced new restrictions aimed at reducing the number of Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) issued over the next three years.
What Spouses of Students Need to Know
Previously, most spouses of students in Canada could apply for open work permits. However, this will now be limited to spouses of students in specific programs. Only spouses of students enrolled in master’s programs lasting at least 16 months will be eligible for open work permits.
What Spouses of Temporary Workers Need to Know
Open work permit eligibility will also be restricted for spouses of temporary foreign workers. In the future, only spouses of highly skilled workers in specific professions will be eligible. This includes occupations like C-suite executives,scientists, engineers, lawyers, professors, technicians, and workers in sectors with critical labour shortages. Spouses of workers in essential sectors like healthcare and construction will likely continue to be eligible for work permits.
What This Means for the Future
These changes are expected to significantly reduce the number of SOWPs issued. IRCC estimates a decrease of 100,000 fewer work permits for spouses of temporary workers and 50,000 fewer for spouses of students over the next three years.
Who Is Affected?
This primarily impacts spouses of international students (except those in qualifying master’s programs) and temporary workers in non-critical or highly skilled professions.
Do You Have More Questions or Concerns Regarding These New Rules?
If you are a spouse of a temporary resident in Canada, it’s crucial to stay updated on these changes. Consult with an immigration professional to understand how these new regulations might affect your eligibility for a work permit.
Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at (855) 924-3320. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal, an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.
VisaPlace Immigration News Contributor
Ella Bergquist
Hello! I am one of VisaPlace's many immigration news contributors. Comment below if you have any questions or comments about this article.
