[New Work Permit Limits for Families of Military Personnel]

Canada’s New Work Permit Rules Pose Challenges for Military Families

A recent change in Canada’s immigration policy, effective November 14, 2025, has significant implications for military families. The update, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aligns military-specific open work permit rules with national standards set earlier in 2025. This move, however, limits previously available options for many families accompanying military personnel in Canada.

Key Changes in Work Permit Eligibility

The revised policy restricts the eligibility for open work permits among military families, impacting dependent children and certain spouses. Now, dependent children cannot apply for open work permits under administrative codes C46 or C48 unless a reciprocal agreement is in place. Additionally, spouses of military personnel working in TEER 4 roles (lower-skilled occupations) are no longer eligible for open work permits under code C47. They must now explore alternative criteria or seek employer-specific permits.

Implications for Military Families

For military families, these changes could affect financial planning, employment opportunities, and the overall family experience during postings in Canada. Dependent children, who previously had the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, may now face challenges unless covered by specific international agreements. Spouses of TEER 4 workers also face limited options, necessitating potentially more complex application processes.

New Guidelines for Application Processing

The policy update introduces new operational instructions for immigration officers, focusing on documentary evidence, approval conditions, and standardized refusal guidelines. These are intended to create consistency in decision-making but also require families to submit more comprehensive documentation to meet the new criteria.

Aligning with National Trends

This policy shift reflects a broader trend towards uniformity in Canada’s work permit regulations. While consistency in application procedures is beneficial, it reduces the flexibility previously granted to military families. This aligns military policies with national reforms but narrows the scope of work permit eligibility, urging families to seek alternative solutions and prepare detailed applications.

In light of these changes, affected families must navigate the new landscape with careful planning and a thorough understanding of the revised regulations to maintain their economic stability while accompanying military personnel in Canada.

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