Work & Study
Canada's work permit system has tightened since 2024: fewer open work permits for spouses, a pause on most low-wage LMIAs in the Toronto area, and lower temporary-worker targets. The right permit depends on your job, your family and your long-term plan.
We map out the permit that fits today and how it connects to permanent residence later.
Since January 21, 2025, spousal open work permits are limited to spouses of certain students (for example, master's programs of 16 months or more and doctoral programs) and of workers in TEER 0 or 1 or selected TEER 2 or 3 occupations, among other measures. Eligibility now depends closely on the details.
If you applied for an extension before your permit expired, you can generally keep working under the same conditions while IRCC decides (maintained status). Apply before expiry.
The difference between employer-specific (LMIA) and open work permits, who qualifies for each, and what Canadian employers need to know about the LMIA process.
Read · 6 minLow-wage LMIAs are refused in the Toronto CMA (including Brampton) until at least January 2027. Which jobs are exempt, and what options GTA employers still have.
Read · 5 minCanada still caps study permits in 2026, but master's and PhD students at public institutions are now exempt from the PAL. Who needs a PAL/TAL, and what it means for spouses.
Read · 6 minThis page is general information, not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts, and no outcome can be guaranteed.
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