As of early 2025, Canada introduced major updates to the Canada Open Work Permit, changing who can apply and how applications are processed. These new regulations, effective through October 2025, tighten eligibility for many dependents and spouses and place stronger emphasis on education level, occupation, and compliance standards. Here’s what applicants need to know and how to apply online under the revised system.
Canada Open Work Permit
| Key Fact | Detail / Change |
|---|---|
| Eligibility narrowed | Dependent children of foreign workers no longer qualify; spouses must meet stricter occupation or study conditions |
| Spouse eligibility | Only spouses of certain international students or skilled workers in priority sectors qualify |
| Interim work policy | Applicants may begin work while their permit is being processed under new temporary rules |
| Application fees | CAD 155 permit fee plus CAD 100 open work permit holder fee |
| Application method | All applications must now be filed online through the IRCC portal |
What Is an Open Work Permit in Canada?
An open work permit allows a foreign national to work for almost any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer. It differs from employer-specific permits, which tie a worker to one employer and role. Open work permits are typically available to certain spouses, graduates, and permanent residence applicants, but access is increasingly limited under new 2025 rules.
What Changed in 2025
Family Open Work Permit Rules
Beginning in January 2025, the federal government implemented significant restrictions on open work permits for family members of temporary residents.
- Dependent children of foreign workers or students no longer qualify for an open work permit.
- Spouses and common-law partners can apply only if their partner meets new conditions:
- The partner must be studying in a master’s programme of at least 16 months, a doctoral programme, or another approved professional course.
- For working spouses, the principal applicant must hold a job classified under TEER 0 or TEER 1, or in selected TEER 2 or TEER 3 roles considered essential to Canada’s economy.
- Applications submitted before January 2025 continue to be processed under the older rules.
These updates are designed to prioritise applicants linked to higher education and critical labour market roles.
Other Policy Adjustments
A new public policy introduced in mid-2025 allows certain foreign nationals to start working with a new employer while their work permit application is still pending. The change aims to reduce employment gaps caused by longer processing times.
Additionally, Canada’s immigration department has signalled further efforts to manage the overall number of temporary residents and align work permits with genuine labour shortages. The new approach seeks to balance economic needs with sustainable immigration growth.
Who Still Qualifies
The 2025 revisions significantly narrow eligibility, but several categories remain valid:
- Spouses or common-law partners of international students
- The student must be enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, or approved professional programme lasting at least 16 months.
- Spouses of skilled foreign workers
- The principal worker must be in a TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupation, or a qualifying TEER 2 or 3 position in priority sectors such as healthcare, engineering, or construction.
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) applicants
- Individuals awaiting decisions on permanent residence applications may apply for a bridging permit.
- Eligible graduates
- Certain international graduates from designated learning institutions remain eligible for post-graduation open work permits.
All applicants must maintain valid legal status in Canada and meet medical, financial, and character requirements.
How to Apply Online For Canada Open Work Permit
All open work permit applications must now be submitted online. Paper applications are accepted only in exceptional circumstances.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Review the criteria to confirm that you meet the requirements for a spousal, dependent, or bridging open work permit under the 2025 framework.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
Sign in or register on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal using a GCKey or a Sign-In Partner account.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Fill out the digital form, selecting “Open Work Permit.” Upload supporting documents such as proof of identity, relationship, legal status, and programme or employment details.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Submit payment of CAD 155 for processing and CAD 100 for the open work permit holder fee.
Step 5: Submit and Track
Once submitted, you can monitor application status through your online account. Biometrics, medical exams, or interviews may be requested.
Applicants outside Canada may also need to present a letter of introduction at the border before starting work.
Processing and Interim Work Options
Processing times vary by country and case complexity. Under the 2025 interim work policy, some foreign nationals are allowed to begin working with a new employer while their permit is being finalized. This measure is expected to ease labour shortages and minimize income disruption for skilled workers.
Key Risks and Practical Tips
- Ineligibility risk: Applications may be refused if the principal student or worker does not meet the updated conditions.
- Processing delays: Permit backlogs remain high, so early application is advisable.
- Proof requirements: Accurate documentation of relationships, studies, and employment remains critical.
- Old rule protection: Applications submitted before January 2025 are still processed under the previous framework.
Careful preparation and early submission are essential to reduce delays or refusals under the stricter system.
CRA $3900 One-Time Payment: Eligibility, Dates & Full Payout Details
Outlook
Canada’s 2025 changes mark a shift toward prioritising high-skilled workers and advanced-degree students. The policy reflects growing concerns about managing temporary resident numbers and aligning immigration with economic needs.
For applicants planning to apply in October 2025, success depends on understanding the new categories, verifying eligibility early, and submitting a complete online application. Immigration specialists expect continued refinements in 2026 as Canada adapts to labour-market trends and population pressures.
