The Government of Canada has introduced significant changes to the International Mobility Program (IMP), specifically affecting work permit eligibility for family members of temporary foreign workers. These adjustments, effective January 21, 2025, aim to better align with economic priorities, labour market conditions, and community capacity.
Key Changes to Work Permit Access
- Restrictions on Work Permits for Spouses and Dependents
- Spouses of low-skilled foreign workers(TEER 4 and 5) and dependents of all foreign workers are no longer eligible for an open work permit.
- Eligibility is now limited to spouses and common-law partnersof foreign workers in:
- Management or professional occupations (TEER 0 and 1)
- Select TEER 2 and 3 occupationsin critical sectors such as:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Construction
- Health care
- Natural resources
- Education, sports, and military
- Validity Requirement for Principal Foreign Worker
- The foreign worker must have at least 16 monthsremaining on their work authorization at the time their spouse applies for an open work permit.
- No Impact on Permanent Residence Transitions
- Family members of foreign workers transitioning to permanent residenceremain eligible for open work permits regardless of these changes.
Who Is Still Eligible for an Open Work Permit?
As of January 21, 2025, at 5:00 A.M. UTC, only spouses and common-law partners of foreign workers who meet the following conditions can apply for an open work permit under administrative code C41:
- The principal foreign worker must:
- Be employed in any TEER 0 or 1 occupation, OR
- Be employed in a select TEER 2 or 3 occupationin a government-prioritized sector (e.g., healthcare, construction, education, etc.).
- Hold a valid work permit or authorization for at least 16 monthsat the time of the spousal work permit application.
Who Is Affected?
- Spouses of Low-Skilled Workers (TEER 4 & 5)– No longer eligible for open work permits.
- Dependent Children of Foreign Workers– No longer eligible for work permits.
- Spouses of High-Skilled Workers (TEER 0, 1, 2, 3 in select fields)– Still eligible for open work permits.
- Workers Transitioning to Permanent Residence – Not affected by these changes.
Transitional Rules for Pending Applications
The existing program delivery instructions (PDIs) remain in place for the following:
- Applications received before January 21, 2025– Processed under previous rules.
- Applications from family members of workers transitioning to PR – Processed under previous rules, regardless of submission date.
- For in-Canada applicants only:
- Applications received on or after January 21, 2025, will be accepted only if they are for work permit renewalsmatching the duration of the principal worker’s permit.
Why These Changes?
The Canadian government is adjusting its policies to:
- Ensure that work permit distribution aligns with labour market needs.
- Reduce demand on community services, such as housing and healthcare, by managing the number of work permit holders.
- Support critical sectors facing labor shortages while limiting open work permits for occupations with lower demand.
What This Means for You
If you are a spouse or dependent of a temporary foreign worker, these changes may impact your ability to obtain a work permit. If you no longer qualify for an open work permit, you may need to explore alternative immigration pathways.
How We Can Help
At Fridman and Company, we assist foreign workers and their families in navigating Canada’s complex immigration policies. If you have questions about your work permit eligibility or alternative immigration options, contact us today at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for personalized support.
For official details, visit the Government of Canada website or reach out to our team for expert guidance.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, consult an immigration lawyer.