As the second-largest category of Canadian immigration sponsorships, family reunification is one of the most utilized ways for aspiring citizens and permanent residents to immigrate and start their lives anew.
In recent years, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have seen an influx of related applications that continues to increase thanks to the quick and accessible process involved. While it may seem like a great opportunity to start a new life in Canada, it’s vital to note that opting to enter through a family reunification requires planning as only certain members are eligible.
Among all the few permitted family members or relationships that are allowed to secure this sponsorship application, one of the most common is spousal or partner candidates.
What types of relationships are considered valid?
When it comes to understanding the key details of applying for spousal sponsorship, a crucial aspect to consider is the type of relationship you share with your significant other. Generally, the CIC has a lenient stand on what types of couples count and which ones don’t, but it still maintains a rigid approach in verifying the nature of the relationship shared between applicants.
According to the IRCC’s rules and guidelines, the only types of applicable relationships for a family reunification application are married, common-law, and conjugal partners. Let’s go over each type of relationship in further detail:
1. Married or marriage-bound relationships
Based on their namesake, married applicants are defined as spouses that are bound by legal marriage procedures in their country of origin. In the case of most applicants that tied the knot outside of Canada’s borders, however, it is imperative to ensure that the union is considered valid under local and national laws.
2. Conjugal relationships
These relationships are characterized by solidifying a bond between an opposite or same-sex couple who have been in a committed relationship but haven’t been able to live with each other. Such cases that fall under this category can be seen in arrangements where one-half of the couples are in Canada for work or studies while the other is in a different country.
3. Common-law relationships
Similar to conjugal relationships, common-law relationships are formed between two people who have been together for at least a year. What makes this unit stand out from other accepted options under the family reunification program is that it involves two partners who have been living together for a year while being in a committed relationship!
On ensuring your success rate
Generally, the success of an application for a spousal relationship under the family reunification program depends on your ability to prove to a visa office of your relationship’s authenticity. While there may be many different ways to vouch for your union’s legitimacy, the best way to do so is by getting an immigration expert—such as Bright Immigration—to help you with your application process!
Conclusion
For anyone who has been meaning to live a better life in Canada with their loved ones, it’s vital that all the necessary steps are taken to ensure that you and your partner are eligible to apply. With this guide’s help, you can help further improve your chances of having a visa inspector accept your application and let your special someone enjoy living in this country as well!
If you’re looking for professional help from an immigration agency in Toronto, please contact us at info@brightimmigration.com or call 1-888-404-8472.
