The political landscape in Canada has seen a significant shift following the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. As soon as Trudeau left office, the Canadian government introduced game-changing amendments that are expected to benefit thousands of Indian students and their families. These changes, which impact the Open Work Permit (OWP) for international students and the spouses of foreign workers, are set to come into effect on January 21, 2025.
With these new rules, many Indian students will be able to bring their spouses to Canada, allowing them to work while the student is pursuing their studies or working in the country. Here’s a closer look at the important changes:
Key Changes in the Open Work Permit (OWP) Rules
The new amendments to Canada’s Open Work Permit are specifically designed to make it easier for international students and their families to integrate into the Canadian workforce. These changes will apply to students enrolled in specific programs and foreign workers in certain job sectors.
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Spouses of International Students | Must be enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or select vocational programs (16 months or more) | Spouses can apply for OWP and work while the student is studying |
| Spouses of Foreign Workers | Must be employed in TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3 occupations in high-demand sectors (16 months remaining on the work permit) | Spouses can apply for OWP to work while living in Canada |
| Dependent Children | Stricter eligibility criteria apply. They are no longer eligible for the Family OWP | Dependent children must apply for other types of work permits |
Who Will Benefit the Most?
Indian Students and Their Families
This new rule offers a major benefit for Indian students, as many will now be able to bring their spouses to work with them while they study or work in Canada. With India being a leading source of international students in Canada, the new OWP eligibility criteria will positively impact thousands of Indian families.
Foreign Workers in High-Demand Sectors
The new amendments also apply to spouses of foreign workers in Canada. Workers employed in TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3 occupations—particularly in sectors such as healthcare, construction, natural sciences, and education—will be able to bring their spouses to work. This move aims to address labor shortages in these critical industries.
New Criteria for Dependent Children
While spouses of international students and foreign workers are now eligible to apply for the Family OWP, there are stricter rules for dependent children. Children of foreign workers or students will no longer be eligible for the Family OWP. However, individuals whose family members are already approved under the previous rules will still be able to renew their work permits under the current criteria.
Canada’s International Student Study Permit Plans
In 2023, Canada issued 37% of all study permits to Indian nationals, with a significant portion coming from family applicants. The recent changes will help families integrate more effectively into Canada’s workforce. However, the Canadian government has also announced a reduction in the number of international student study permits for 2025, cutting the target by 10% from 485,000 to 437,000. This reduction in study permits for 2025 aims to manage the influx of international students while still supporting economic growth.
Positive Impact for Indian Families in Canada
The amendments to Canada’s Open Work Permit (OWP) are a welcome change for many Indian families. With spouses of international students and foreign workers now able to join the workforce, these new rules create more opportunities for Indian nationals to settle in Canada and contribute to the economy.
As Canada continues to be one of the most popular destinations for Indian students, these updates signify a positive shift in immigration policies that can help families integrate and thrive.
Popular News Article Related Q&A
Q1: How will the new OWP rules benefit Indian families in Canada?
The amendments to the Open Work Permit (OWP) rules will allow spouses of international students and foreign workers to work in Canada. This change, effective from January 2025, will especially benefit Indian families who wish to join their loved ones in Canada.
Q2: Who is eligible for the new Open Work Permit under these changes?
The new OWP eligibility applies to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or certain vocational programs (16 months or longer) and spouses of foreign workers employed in high-demand sectors like healthcare, natural sciences, and construction.
Q3: How does the reduction in study permits impact Indian students?
The Canadian government has announced a 10% reduction in international student study permits for 2025. While this reduction aims to control the influx of international students, it is expected to affect only a small percentage of Indian applicants.
Q4: Are dependent children of foreign workers and students eligible for the Family OWP?
No, dependent children are no longer eligible for the Family OWP under the new criteria. However, family members who were previously approved under old rules can still apply for renewal.
