Welcome to the Guberman // Appleby Immigration Update. We hope you find the information provided relevant to your immigration needs. Our objective is to highlight recent changes in immigration that are of interest to our readers. If you have specific questions relating to this update, feel free to contact us at info@gaimmlaw.com.
Today’s topic:
- IRCC announces changes for spouses of international students work eligibility
The Canadian federal government recently announced significant changes to the International Student Program, particularly impacting the availability of open work permits for spouses of students. Effective March 19, 2024, these changes mark a significant shift in policy, narrowing the eligibility criteria for spouses seeking open work permits.
Under the revised guidelines, open work permits for spouses of international students will now only be available for those enrolled in specific degree programs. This comes into effect on March 19, 2014. These programs include:
- Graduate Programs
- Master’s and doctorate degrees granted by universities or polytechnic institutions
- Professional Degree Programs:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDs, DMD)
- Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSC, BPharm)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
- Bachelor of Education (Bed)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc) only
In addition to specific degree programs, the principal foreign national seeking open work permits must fulfill residency requirements. They must either be physically residing in Canada while studying or provide proof of intent to physically reside in Canada while studying.
This adjustment is a significant departure from previous policies where spouses of students at designated learning institutions were eligible for open work permits. The change aims to refine eligibility criteria and focus on specific academic programs.
These changes signify a concerted effort by the Canadian government to streamline the International Student Program and ensure that open work permits for spouses align with specific academic and professional pursuits.
// CONTACT US
We welcome you to contact us directly to discuss the above. Please contact one of our immigration lawyers, by reaching out to our general line 416 548 7100 or via email info@gaimmlaw.com. Our immigration lawyers are always available to discuss any of your specific Canadian or US immigration queries either virtually or in person. We look forward to hearing from you.
