Canada is a welcoming destination for couples seeking to immigrate. Whether you are engaged, married or in a common law relationship, Canada offers various immigration programs that cater to couples.
Spousal sponsorship is one of the most efficient ways for couples to immigrate to Canada. This option is best if you already have a spouse or partner living in Canada, or if your spouse or partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Your spouse may sponsor you to join them in Canada and become a permanent resident, as long as they meet certain eligibility criteria.
To sponsor a spouse or partner, the sponsor must be at least 18 years of age, a Canadian permanent resident living in Canada or a Canadian citizen, not be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order (if a permanent resident), or charged with a serious offense, and not have been sponsored to Canada as a spouse within the last 5 years.
Proof of relationship must also be provided and fall under one of three categories: Spouse, Common law partner, or Conjugal partner.
The Express Entry system is the federal government’s management system of three main immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Couples can apply for Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry in one of two ways.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is another option for couples moving to Canada. Nearly every province and territory operates the PNP to welcome skilled workers to their respective regions. The partner with the strongest work experience, education, etc. should apply as the main immigration candidate.
Lastly, spouses and partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can get an open work permit while their sponsorship application for permanent residence is being processed. This allows sponsored individuals to work for any employer of their choice in Canada during the immigration application process.
Couples have various options for immigrating to Canada, ranging from spousal sponsorship to open work permits for spouses. It is important to thoroughly research and consider which option is best suited for your unique circumstances in order to successfully navigate the Canadian immigration process.
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