Canada has recently announced an important policy change that allows dependent children of Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) to apply for work permit. This move aims to address Canada’s ongoing labour shortages while also helping families stay together and integrate better into Canadian society.
Under this policy, eligible family members—including spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children may qualify for work permits if the principal worker holds an open work permit (OWP) and is employed in certain TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories.
Who Is Eligible Under the New Policy?
Family members may qualify if the primary work permit holder:
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Holds a valid open work permit (OWP)
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Works in an eligible TEER category (0–3)
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Is legally employed in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Who Is Not Eligible?
Family members of workers in TEER 4 or 5 positions under the low-wage stream of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program or the agricultural stream of the TFWP are not eligible under this policy.
Understanding TEER Categories
TEER levels describe the skill, education, training, and responsibility required for a job:
TEER 0 – Management Roles
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Senior management positions
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Examples: Advertising managers, marketing managers, finance managers
TEER 1 – Professional Occupations
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Usually require a university degree
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Examples: Software engineers, financial advisors
TEER 2 – Technical & Skilled Trades
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College diploma, apprenticeship, or supervisory roles
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Examples: Web technicians, medical laboratory technologists
TEER 3 – Intermediate Occupations
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College education or on-the-job training
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Examples: Bakers, dental assistants
TEER 4 – Entry-Level Roles
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High school education or short training
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Examples: Food counter attendants, general labourers
TEER 5 – Manual & Service Jobs
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Short-term training, hands-on skills
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Examples: Home childcare providers, retail salespersons, delivery drivers
Only TEER 0 to TEER 3 positions qualify for dependent child work permits under this policy.
Who Is Considered a Dependent Child?
A dependent child may be:
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Your biological or adopted child
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Your spouse’s or common-law partner’s child
Age Requirements
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Under 22 years old, unmarried, and not in a common-law relationship
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22 years or older if financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition that existed before turning 22
Children must also pass medical exams, background checks, and security screenings.
How Can Dependent Children Apply for a Work Permit?
Dependent children may:
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Apply together with their family, or
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Apply independently if eligible
Open Work Permit (OWP)
They may qualify for an open work permit if:
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Sponsored by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or
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Eligible under existing foreign worker pathways
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
If an open work permit is not available, employers may need to obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before hiring the dependent child.
Additional Requirements to Keep in Mind
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Provincial or territorial minimum age requirements must be met
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Some jobs may require a medical exam
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All eligibility conditions must be satisfied before applying
Why This Policy Matters
This policy is expected to benefit over 200,000 families by:
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Helping Canada address labour shortages
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Allowing families to stay together
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Supporting smoother settlement and integration
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Making better use of skills already present in Canada
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the new work permit rule for dependent children of TFWs?
Dependent children of TFWs working in eligible TEER categories (0–3) can now apply for work permits.
Q2. Are all dependent children eligible?
Only children under 22 (or older dependents with medical conditions) who meet eligibility requirements can apply.
Q3. Are agricultural workers included?
No. Low-wage agricultural workers in TEER 4 or 5 are excluded.
Q4. Is an LMIA always required?
No. LMIA is only needed if an open work permit is not available.
Q5. Does this policy lead to permanent residency?
This policy focuses on work permits. PR pathways depend on separate immigration programs.
Key Takeaways
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Canada now allows dependent children of eligible TFWs to work
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Applies to TEER 0–3 occupations
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Supports labour market needs and family integration
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May require medical exams or LMIA, depending on the case
For the latest updates and application guidance, always consult IRCC’s official website or a licensed immigration consultant.
