Canada’s political climate and changes to Open Work Permits (OWP)

There have been some significant updates to Canada’s political landscape and upcoming immigration changes that may impact future applicants. Understanding these changes is crucial for planning your path to permanent residence (PR) in Canada.

Last week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation but will remain in office until the Liberal Party selects a new leader. However, public confidence in the Liberal government has sharply declined. The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is leading the polls and is widely expected to win the next federal election. This means:

• The next federal election could occur as early as March 2025, but must be held by October 20, 2025.
• A shift in government could bring further changes to Canada’s immigration policies.

Recent Immigration Policy Changes
The Liberal government has already started tightening immigration policies, mainly targeting reductions in the number of international students and low-skilled foreign workers. This response comes after increased immigration levels contributed to a housing shortage and a rise in unemployment among Canadians.

 Most notably, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that there will be new restrictions on Open Work Permits (OWP) for dependents of students and foreign workers.


New Open Work Permit Rules
Effective Jan 21, 2025

1) No Open Work Permits for dependent children

2) Spouses of workers with low-wage LMIA-based permits will not qualify for OWPs

• These permits are now limited to one year.

3) Spouses of International Students will only be eligible for an OWP if the student is enrolled in:

• Master’s Program of 16 months or longer, or
• Doctoral Program, or
• Select professional and eligible programs (list available Jan 21, 2025).

3) Spouses of Foreign Workers will only qualify for an OWP if:

• The principal applicant is employed in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation, or
• In select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in key sectors (list to be released), and
• Has at least 16 months remaining on their work permit.


Open Work Permits remain an option
.
Despite the announced changes, a spousal OWP can still be a strategic way to obtain permanent residency. Spouses who secure employment with a Canadian employer (excluding self-employment) may become eligible for PR under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Spouses who secure employment with a Canadian employer (excluding self-employment) may become eligible for PR under the CEC. Contact us for more information about these changes and