
In assessing eligibility for a spousal open work permit, the principal foreign national continues to remain the principal in the couple. The principal foreign national is the first foreign national of the couple who obtained a study or work permit or was deemed authorized to work under the provisions of section R186 other than under paragraph R186(w). Dependent children are not eligible for C41 or C42 open work permits. Only spousal work has been designated by the Minister. In these instructions “spousal” refers to either common-law partner or married spouse situations. The following categories of work for genuine spouses or common-law partners of principal foreign nationals have been designated by the Minister as necessary for reasons of public policy relating to the competitiveness of Canada’s academic institutions, or economy, under subparagraph 205(c)(ii) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).

Spouses or common-law partners of provincial nominees.Spouses or common-law partners of Quebec selection certificate (CSQ) holders.Spouses or common-law partners of Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) work permit holders.

