Canada Allows Vietnamese Relatives to Work – Updated

Canada’s policy allowing Vietnamese relatives to work has undergone significant changes, especially since January 21, 2025. Understanding these regulations will help you plan family migration effectively and legally. Learn more here.

Latest updates in Canada’s policy

Since January 21, 2025, the Canadian government has made significant changes to the Open Work Permit for family members. These adjustments directly affect the ability to bring relatives to Canada for work.

There are regulations in Canada allowing Vietnamese relatives to come for work

Currently, dependent work permits are only issued to the spouses of international students and skilled foreign workers. Specifically: 

• Spouses of international students can apply for an open work permit if the sponsor is enrolled in a master’s program of at least 16 months, designated professional programs, or a doctoral program

• Spouses of foreign workers must meet the condition that the principal worker has at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time of application and belongs to a list of priority occupations, which will be published in detail

• Dependent children of temporary foreign workers will no longer be eligible for open work permits starting January 21, 2025. However, they can still apply for study permits..

Legal pathways to bring relatives to Canada

1. Work permit with Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Your relatives need a valid work permit to work in Canada through programs such as the Global Talent Stream, Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), or LMIA-exempt programs.

Relatives need a valid work permit to work in Canada

Advantages:

• Clear and transparent process

• Can lead to permanent residency after 3 years

• Protected under Canadian labor laws

Requirements:

• Have a job offer from a Canadian employer

• Employer must have an LMIA (in most cases)

• Meet the required qualifications and experience"

2. Family sponsorship program

Canada facilitates citizens and permanent residents in sponsoring their family members to immigrate and work, creating opportunities for family reunification.

Eligible sponsors:

• Spouses and common-law partners

• Children under 22 years old who are unmarried

• Parents and grandparents in special circumstances

• Other relatives under certain conditions

Sponsorship process:

1. The sponsor submits a sponsorship application

2. The sponsored person submits a permanent residence application

3. Wait for assessment and interview (if required)

4. Receive the decision and enter Canada

3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Many provinces in Canada have their own programs to attract skilled workers, including support for bringing family members to work.

Pathway from temporary worker to permanent resident

After approximately three years of working in Canada, you can apply for permanent residency and enjoy the same benefits. Popular immigration programs include:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• For individuals with work experience in Canada

• Requires a minimum of one year of skilled work experience

• Must meet the required IELTS score

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program

• For highly skilled workers

• Assessed based on a comprehensive points system

• No Canadian work experience required

3. Provincial Nominee Program

• Each province has its own specific requirements

• Prioritizes occupations in high demand

• Often provides a faster pathway to residency

Canada’s labor market outlook

According to forecasts, demand for workers in Canada is expected to continue growing strongly from 2023 to 2025 due to an aging population and increasing retirements.

Priority occupations

• Information technology

• Healthcare and medical services

• Engineering and construction

• Education and training

• Agriculture and food

The demand for workers in Canada is expected to continue growing strongly

Career development opportunities:

• International standard salaries

• Professional working environment

• Opportunities for learning and career advancement

• Guaranteed employee benefits

Bringing family members to work in Canada is entirely feasible with the latest policy updates. Although there are some limitations, there are still multiple legal pathways to achieve your dream of immigrating and developing your career in the Maple Leaf Country.

The most important factor is thorough preparation in legal matters, finances, and documentation. Consulting with experienced professionals can help you maximize your chances of success and avoid unnecessary risks.

Are you interested in bringing your family members to work in Canada? The expert team at Quốc Tịch Thứ Hai will accompany you throughout your journey of working and settling in Canada. Contact us today!