Getting married is a big and exciting decision for a couple. But things can get a bit complicated if the couple doesn’t come from the same country. Some people think that marrying a Canadian means you automatically become a citizen or get to live in Canada, but that’s not true. To become a Canadian citizen, you have to go through a specific process.
However, this doesn’t mean you can’t live with your Canadian spouse in Canada. You can, but to become a Canadian citizen, you must meet certain requirements. One of these requirements is that you need to be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the 5 years just before you apply. So, it’s not an automatic process, but it’s definitely possible if you meet the conditions.
Can I Live in Canada if I Marry a Canadian?
Yes, you can help Spouse Move to Canada through Spousal Sponsorship!
If you’re a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, you can help your spouse come to Canada through spousal sponsorship. However, there are some requirements you need to meet:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You should be living in Canada. If you’re a Canadian citizen living outside Canada, you need to show that you plan to live in Canada when your sponsored relative becomes a permanent resident. If you’re a permanent resident living outside of Canada, you can’t be a sponsor.
- You must prove that you’re not receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability.
- You need to show that you can provide for your spouse’s basic needs.
Once you, as the sponsor, are approved, your husband or wife can apply for permanent residence in Canada. It’s important to note that even though your marriage is genuine, the Canadian government has made the rules stricter for all spousal sponsorship cases because of a few instances of immigration marriage fraud. So, make sure to meet all the documentation requirements to ensure a smooth process.
How does Spousal Sponsorship Differ from Other Canadian Immigration Streams?
The great thing about this option is that you can get a permanent residence visa for Canada without having to prove you have a lot of money. When your spouse or sponsor helps you, they take full responsibility for you in the immigration process.
When you go this route, you won’t be turned away based on your job skills. The government’s focus here is not on how qualified you are but on keeping your family together.
How Long Does it Take to Obtain Canadian Permanent Residency Through Marriage?
Once you tie the knot with your sweetheart, you can start the exciting journey of Spousal Sponsorship to secure Permanent Residency in Canada. To make this happen, Canada typically looks for couples who’ve been together for at least two lovely years.
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Now, once you’ve put together your complete application and sent it to the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada), it usually takes about 45 days for them to process it. But hold on, if there are any hiccups like mistakes in your application or missing documents, it might take longer. That’s why it’s a good idea to chat with a legal expert before taking the plunge. They can guide you on this path to happily ever after in Canada!
Benefits if Marrying a Canadian Citizen
One of the wonderful perks of marrying a Canadian citizen is the path to becoming a permanent resident. When you apply for permanent residency through your Canadian spouse, they won’t scrutinize your professional skills too closely. This can be a big help, especially if you don’t have a fancy degree or the exact work experience they typically ask for. It’s like getting a warm welcome regardless of your job qualifications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, marrying a Canadian citizen is a significant and often heartwarming step in one’s life journey, but it doesn’t automatically grant you citizenship. Instead, it opens the door to the possibility of becoming a permanent resident in Canada. While the process can be complex, it prioritizes family unity over professional qualifications, providing an opportunity for couples to build their lives together in this diverse and welcoming nation. Remember, each case may vary, so it’s essential to consult with immigration authorities and legal experts to navigate the path toward Canadian citizenship successfully. Love may be the initial reason for your marriage, but with the right steps, it can lead to a brighter future in Canada.
FAQs
Is marrying a Canadian citizen the same as becoming a citizen?
No, marrying a Canadian citizen doesn’t automatically make you a citizen. It typically leads to the possibility of becoming a permanent resident, which is a significant step toward citizenship.
What are the advantages of marrying a Canadian citizen for immigration purposes?
Marrying a Canadian citizen can facilitate the immigration process, as it prioritizes family reunification. This can be especially beneficial if you lack certain professional qualifications or work experience typically required for immigration.
What is the process for obtaining permanent residency through marriage to a Canadian citizen?
The process usually involves spousal sponsorship. Your Canadian spouse sponsors you, and you apply for permanent residency. It involves demonstrating a genuine relationship, providing necessary documentation, and meeting specific requirements.
How long does it take to obtain permanent residency through marriage in Canada?
The processing time can vary, but it generally takes several months to complete the application and receive approval. Delays may occur if there are errors or missing information in the application.
Do I automatically become a Canadian citizen after obtaining permanent residency through marriage?
No, permanent residency is a distinct status from citizenship. After obtaining permanent residency, you can eventually apply for Canadian citizenship if you meet the residency and other requirements, typically after living in Canada for several years.
