The procedure of bringing an unmarried partner to Canada involves being aware of immigration regulations and the particular standards established by the Canadian government.
Let’s go through the procedures,
Can I Bring My Unmarried Partner to Canada?
- Common-Law Partner Category
The common-law partner group plays an important role for unmarried partners.
Someone you have lived in a married relationship for at least a year is considered your common-law partner.
Even if you are not officially married, you are still able to sponsor your partner under this category.
Differences between Spouse and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship
Since reuniting couples in Canada is the goal of both groups, the proof of relationship is where the differences lie.
A marriage certificate is required for spouses, whereas proof of cohabitation and a sincere relationship is required for common-law partners.
- Spousal Sponsorship Canada – Canadim – CLICK HERE
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring an Unmarried Partner
Both the sponsor and the unmarried partner must fulfill certain eligibility requirements to sponsor them to come to Canada.
1. Requirements for the Sponsor
- To be a sponsor to bring unmarried partner to Canada, you have to be a resident of Canada, a minimum of 18 years old, and a citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
- Also, you must show your ability to provide for your partner and, if relevant, any dependent children.
2. Requirements for the Unmarried Partner
- Your single partner must be at least 18 years old and not a blood relative.
- They have to clear background, security, and medical examinations as mandated by immigration officials in Canada.
Read: How much money is required for a Canada study visa?
3. Proof of Relationship Duration and Cohabitation
- To bring unmarried partner to Canada to be considered a common-law partners, you must provide proof of your continuous living for a minimum of 1 year.
- Joint bank accounts, utility bills, and shared leases are a few examples of this.
Documentation and Evidence Needed
To prove to immigration officials that your relationship with them is legitimate, you must present ample documentation and supporting evidence.
1. Types of Acceptable Proof of Relationship
- Joint bank accounts, rental agreements or leases, utility bills, and old photos of the couple together are all acceptable forms of documentation.
2. Importance of Joint Financial Documents
- Joint financial records such as insurance policies, bank accounts, and tax returns bearing both names provide compelling proof of a sincere and mutually beneficial partnership.
3. Statements from Friends and Family
- You may strengthen your application with letters from friends and family who can verify the sincerity of your love.
The Application Process
The application procedure for bringing an unmarried partner to Canada is multi-step and may require some time to finish.
1. Steps to Submit an Application
- First, go to the IRCC website, download the necessary forms, and fill them out.
- Provide the necessary paperwork and evidence of your relationship.
- After making the required payment, send the IRCC your application package.
2. Role of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Your application will be reviewed by IRCC to make sure all requirements are satisfied.
- To confirm the validity of the relationship, they could ask for more details or an interview.
3. Application Processing Times
- Processing times can vary; they usually take a year or so.
- Check the IRCC website frequently for information regarding the status of your application.
Legal Assistance and Immigration Consultants
Your spouse might be able to apply for an open work visa, which would let them work in Canada for any employer while their application for permanent residency is being processed.
Make sure your spouse enrolls in the province or territory’s healthcare program and finds out about the social programs that can help them settle in.
Bottom Line
It is possible to effectively deal with the complicated procedure of sponsoring an unmarried partner to Canada if you have the necessary information and are well-prepared.
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