Canada: Canada is preparing to introduce major changes to its spousal open work permit system, a move expected to significantly impact applicants from India, particularly Punjab, where thousands of families rely on this route for migration.
Under the proposed immigration changes, spouses applying for work permits from India may soon be required to prove English-language proficiency through recognised exams such as IELTS or CELPIP before being granted approval. The rule is aimed at improving workforce integration and reducing misuse of the immigration pathway through fraudulent marriages.
Until now, the process had been comparatively simple. If a primary applicant was studying or working in Canada in an eligible category, their spouse could generally obtain a visa without submitting any language test results. Immigration experts say this ease of access had led to a sharp rise in “contract marriages” — unions allegedly arranged solely to secure migration benefits.
The revised framework is expected to restrict eligibility mainly to spouses of international students enrolled in advanced academic programs such as master’s degrees, doctoral studies, or select professional courses including medicine and engineering. Students pursuing diplomas, certificates, or standard undergraduate programs would no longer be able to sponsor their partners under the spousal open work permit stream.
For foreign workers already employed in Canada, sponsorship would remain possible, but only if the applicant works in highly skilled sectors such as healthcare, information technology, or other specialised professions. In addition, the sponsoring individual must have at least 16 months of work permit validity remaining.
The proposed language test requirement would apply only to the spouse applying from outside Canada. The partner already living in Canada would not be required to undergo any testing. Applicants would be able to complete the exam from their home country, with expected benchmark scores likely varying depending on job category.
Immigration authorities have clarified that the new regulation has not yet taken effect. It remains under review and is expected to be published in the Canada Gazette for public consultation, allowing a 30-day feedback period before implementation. If approved, the policy could come into force between December 2026 and January 2027.
Officials say the changes are designed to ensure newcomers are better equipped for employment and social integration while also reducing exploitation and discouraging immigration-linked sham marriages.
The proposed shift is expected to create fresh challenges for many Punjabi applicants, particularly those with limited English skills who previously relied on family sponsorship through study permits. However, experts believe those who meet the language standards may ultimately benefit from stronger visa credibility and improved employment opportunities after arrival in Canada.
