[requester]

Record

Sincerely,

Immigration Representatives Mailbox

De:

Envoyé: [requester]

A: Immigration Representatives / Représentants immigration (IRCC) <[IRCC Immigration Representatives mailbox]>

Objet: [requester]

Dear [requester]/Madam,

1 member in good standing with CICC . am writing to seek clarification on the recent changes to the Open Work Permit (OWP) policy effective January 21, 2025, as announced on January 14, 2025.

1. 1. The January 14 announcement mentioned that spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence would not be impacted by these changes. However, the updated instructions published on January 21 no longer explicitly mention spouses of workers covered by free-trade agreements. Could you kindly confirm whether spouses of workers under free-trade agreements remain unaffected by these changes?

2. 2. Regarding the eligibility of family members where the foreign worker is applying for a new or initial work permit: When assessing eligibility through the system, it automatically indicates that the family member cannot apply simultaneously and must apply separately. Could you confirm whether this applies even if the foreign worker holds a position within NOC TEER O, 1, or under the listed TEER 2 and 3 categories, with a work permit validity of over 16 months?

3, 3. The updated instructions also state that eligible family members may:

© * Apply for their work permit at the same time as the principal applicant, either online or at the port of entry, © *Need to apply separately, or © * Apply after their arrival in [requester] you clarify whether work permits can still be issued at the port of entry under the current policy? If so, which categories of applicants or family members qualify to apply for and receive their work permits at the port of entry? Your clarification on these points would be greatly appreciated to ensure compliance with the updated processes and to avoid unnecessary delays for applicants. Thank you for your assistance. Best regards, 000628

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