TEER 2 and 3 Jobs Eligible for Family Open Work Permits in Canada: What You Need to Know

On January 14, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated its guidelines regarding spousal open work permits (SOWPs) for foreign workers in Canada. Under these new rules, only spouses of foreign workers employed in certain TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations, along with TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations, are eligible for an open work permit. The new eligibility criteria took effect on January 21, 2025, marking a significant shift in how spousal work permits are issued.

Key Eligibility Changes for Spouses of Foreign Workers

1. TEER 0 and TEER 1 Occupations: Spouses of foreign workers employed in high-skill occupations (TEER 0 and TEER 1) are still eligible for SOWPs.
2. TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations: Select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations have also been included in the updated eligibility list for SOWPs.
3. Work Permit Duration: To qualify for a spousal open work permit, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit when the spouse applies for the SOWP.
4. No Impact on Existing Permits: These changes will not affect work permits that were approved prior to January 21, 2025, and are still valid. Renewals of previously approved permits are also unaffected by the changes.

What is the TEER System?

The TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) system is Canada’s method of classifying occupations based on skill level. Occupations are assigned to one of five TEER levels, with TEER 0 being the highest skilled and TEER 5 being the lowest.

For the purpose of spousal work permits, TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations, along with select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations, remain eligible.

List of TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations Eligible for SOWPs

The following occupations are eligible for spousal open work permits under the TEER 2 and TEER 3 categories:

TEER 2 Occupations

Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences (NOC Group 22)

• Aircraft instrument, electrical, and avionics mechanics (NOC 22313)
• Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics (NOC 22312)
• Electrical and electronics engineering technologists (NOC 22310)
• Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians (NOC 22301)
• Civil engineering technologists and technicians (NOC 22300)
• Construction estimators (NOC 22303)
• Occupational health and safety specialists (NOC 22232)
• Computer network and web technicians (NOC 22220)
• Industrial designers (NOC 22211)
• Biological technologists and technicians (NOC 22110)

Technical Occupations in Health (NOC Group 32)

• Opticians (NOC 32100)
• Paramedical occupations (NOC 32102)
• Respiratory therapists (NOC 32103)
• Medical laboratory technologists (NOC 32120)
• Pharmacy technicians (NOC 32124)

Front-Line Public Protection and Paraprofessional Occupations (NOC Group 42)

• Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202)
• Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces (NOC 42102)

TEER 3 Occupations

Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services (NOC Group 33)

• Dental assistants (NOC 33100)
• Medical laboratory assistants (NOC 33101)
• Nurse aides and patient service associates (NOC 33102)
• Pharmacy assistants (NOC 33103)

Occupations in Education and Legal and Public Protection (NOC Group 43)

• Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants (NOC 43100)
• Operations members of the Canadian Armed Forces (NOC 43204)

General Trades (NOC Group 73)

• Concrete finishers (NOC 73100)
• Roofers and shinglers (NOC 73110)
• Transport truck drivers (NOC 73300)
• Heavy equipment operators (NOC 73400)
• Drillers and blasters (NOC 73402)

Occupations in Natural Resources and Related Production (NOC Group 83)

• Underground production and development miners (NOC 83100)
• Oil and gas well drillers (NOC 83101)
• Logging machinery operators (NOC 83110)

How to Find Your Occupation’s NOC Code

To determine if your occupation is eligible for a spousal open work permit, you will need to locate the NOC code for your occupation. The NOC code helps classify your occupation based on your job duties and responsibilities.

To find the NOC code:

1. Compare job duties: Review the lead statements and main duties in the NOC to determine if they align with your role.
2. Refer to the NOC list: The NOC code might not match your official job title, so focus on the duties you perform.

How to Apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)

If you meet the eligibility criteria for a spousal open work permit, follow these steps:

1. Complete IRCC’s Eligibility Questionnaire: After answering the questions, you’ll receive a tailored checklist of documents.
2. Prepare the Required Documents: Gather documents such as proof of relationship, proof of employment eligibility, and the principal applicant’s work permit details.
3. Create an IRCC Account: Register or log in to submit your application.
4. Submit the Application: Upload all documents, review your application, and make the payment.
5. Wait for Processing: Once submitted, your application will be processed according to IRCC guidelines.

Background on the Recent Change

The eligibility restrictions for spousal open work permits were part of a broader initiative to reduce the temporary resident population in Canada, as announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller in September 2024. The government expects these changes will result in the issuance of 150,000 fewer SOWPs over the next three years.

These measures focus on highly skilled and in-demand occupations, such as healthcare and trades, aligning with Canada’s broader economic priorities. The government also introduced new targets for the International Mobility Program (IMP) for work permit holders.

Conclusion

As of January 21, 2025, spouses of foreign workers can only apply for open work permits if the foreign worker is employed in a TEER 0, TEER 1, or select TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations. This change highlights the Canadian government’s efforts to prioritize highly skilled labor and manage the inflow of temporary workers. If you are planning to apply for a spousal open work permit, ensure that your occupation aligns with the updated TEER guidelines and that you meet all eligibility requirements.

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!