Canada Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria 2025: Canada has long been a top destination for international students, skilled workers, and professionals seeking career opportunities and a better quality of life. One of the most attractive aspects of Canada’s immigration system is the Open Work Permit (OWP), which allows eligible individuals to work for any employer without requiring a job offer.
However, as of January 21, 2025, Canada has introduced significant changes to the eligibility criteria for OWPs, particularly affecting family members of international students and foreign workers. These modifications aim to streamline the system, align with labor market needs, and ensure that work permits are issued to individuals who can contribute effectively to Canada’s workforce. If you’re planning to apply for an Open Work Permit in Canada in 2025, this guide will walk you through the latest updates, eligibility criteria, application process, and key considerations.
Canada Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria 2025
Canada’s Open Work Permit rules have changed significantly in 2025, limiting eligibility for spouses of international students and foreign workers while excluding dependent children. If you plan to apply, ensure that you meet the new criteria and follow the correct application steps.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 21, 2025 |
| Who Can Apply? | – Spouses of eligible international students (Master’s, PhD, and certain professional programs) – Spouses of eligible foreign workers (TEER 0, TEER 1, and select TEER 2/3 occupations) |
| Who Cannot Apply? | – Spouses of students in diploma/certificate programs – Spouses of foreign workers in TEER 4 or 5 occupations – Dependent children of international students or workers |
| Application Fees | Work permit application: $155 CAD Open work permit holder fee: $100 CAD |
| Processing Time | Varies by country (Check official IRCC website) |
| Official Resource | Government of Canada: Open Work Permits |
Understanding the 2025 Open Work Permit Changes
1. Eligibility for Spouses of International Students
Previous Policy:
Before the 2025 update, spouses of any full-time post-secondary student in Canada were eligible to apply for an OWP.
New Policy (2025 Onward):
Now, only spouses of international students enrolled in the following programs are eligible:
- Master’s Programs (Must be 16 months or longer)
- Doctoral (PhD) Programs
- Select Professional Programs, including:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BN, BNSc)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)
Example:
If Priya’s husband is studying for a Master’s in Data Science (18 months program) at a Canadian university, she is eligible for an OWP. However, if he is pursuing a one-year postgraduate certificate, she is not eligible under the new rules.
Eligibility for Spouses of Foreign Workers
Previous Policy:
Spouses of most foreign workers, except those in low-skilled occupations, were eligible for an OWP.
New Policy (2025 Onward):
Now, eligibility depends on the primary applicant’s job classification under the Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) system:
- Eligible Occupations:
- TEER 0 (Management jobs)
- TEER 1 (Professional jobs that require a degree)
- Select TEER 2 & 3 occupations in priority sectors, such as:
- Healthcare (Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics)
- Construction (Engineers, Electricians)
- Natural & Applied Sciences
- Natural Resources
- Education
- Sports and Military
Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time the spouse applies for an OWP.
Example:
If John’s wife is a Software Engineer (TEER 1 occupation) with a work permit valid for 18 more months, he is eligible for an OWP. However, if she is working as a Retail Store Assistant (TEER 4 occupation), he does not qualify.
Dependent Children Are No Longer Eligible
Previous Policy:
Dependent children of foreign workers and international students were eligible for OWPs.
New Policy (2025 Onward):
Children no longer qualify for an OWP under the new rules. They may still be eligible for study permits or other dependent visas.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Canada Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria 2025
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Check whether you fall into one of the approved categories (spouses of eligible students or workers).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- A valid passport
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate)
- Proof of the principal applicant’s study or employment (e.g., enrollment letter or job contract)
- Medical exam results (if required)
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
Step 3: Apply Online via IRCC Website
Submit your application through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
Step 4: Pay the Required Fees
- Work permit application fee: $155 CAD
- Open work permit holder fee: $100 CAD
Step 5: Wait for Processing & Approval
Processing times vary by country. You can track your application on the IRCC website.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for an open work permit if my spouse is in a diploma or certificate program?
No, spouses of students in diploma or certificate programs are no longer eligible under the new 2025 rules.
2. If I already have an open work permit under the old rules, is it still valid?
Yes, previously approved permits remain valid until their expiration date.
3. Can I renew my open work permit?
You can apply for a renewal if:
- Your spouse needs more time to complete their studies/work.
- Your previous work permit was issued for a shorter duration.
4. Can dependent children still get open work permits?
No, dependent children are no longer eligible for open work permits but may apply for study permits instead.
5. How long does it take to process an open work permit application?
Processing times vary based on the applicant’s country. Check the IRCC processing time tool.
