In late October 2012, the Government of Canada introduced a new rule that requires that some spouses or common-law partners live with their sponsors in a legitimate relationship for two (2) years or risk losing their permanent residence status.
This means that, generally, spouses or partners who have been in a relationship for two (2) years or less AND who do not have children with their sponsor, MUST live in a legitimate relationship with their sponsor for two years beginning on the day the spouse/partner receives their permanent residence.
If the spouse/partner does not remain in the relationship, their permanent residence may be revoked. There are exceptions, however, in cases where the sponsor dies and for spouses/ partners who are victims of violence, abuse and neglect by the sponsor or a person related to the sponsor.
The Government anticipates that this new regulation will help prevent and deter immigration fraud and so-called ‘marriages of convenience’ or ‘marriages for immigration purposes’.
Our lawyers are skilled at compiling strong applications packages for all types of immigration matters. If you would like assistance in filing a spousal sponsorship application and want to know more about how the new regulations may affect you, please feel free to contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers.