Common Law Visa What You Need to Know

When it comes to immigration, understanding the different types of visas available and the requirements for each is essential to ensure a successful application process. One of the visas that applicants may consider is the common law visa, which allows unmarried couples to live and work in Canada. Here’s what you need to know about the common law visa:

What is a Common Law Visa?

A common law visa is a type of visa that allows unmarried couples to live and work in Canada. It’s a form of family sponsorship that does not require a marriage certificate, but rather proof of a genuine and continuous relationship. The couple must have lived together for at least 12 months in a conjugal relationship, which means a relationship of a physical, emotional, and financial nature.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Common Law Visa?

There are several eligibility requirements that must be met in order to apply for a common law visa. These requirements include:

The couple must have lived together for at least 12 months in a conjugal relationship

The couple must have proof of a genuine and continuous relationship

The sponsor or sponsor’s partner must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act

The sponsor must meet the minimum income requirements

The sponsor must sign an undertaking to financially support their partner for three years

What Documents Are Required for a Common Law Visa?

When applying for a common law visa, the following documents are required:

Proof of identity

Proof of legal status in Canada, if applicable

Proof of the relationship (e.g. joint bank account, shared lease agreement, photos together etc.)

Immigration forms and fees

Police certificates

Medical examinations

How to Apply for a Common Law Visa?

The application process for a common law visa is similar to other types of family sponsorship visas. The sponsor must first submit a sponsorship application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), along with the supporting documents. The partner then must apply for permanent residency, which includes submitting their own forms and documents, such as police certificates and medical examinations. Once the partner’s application is approved, they will be issued a permanent resident visa.

Overall, the common law visa provides an option for unmarried couples to live and work in Canada, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and provide proof of a genuine and continuous relationship. Understanding the application process and required documents is essential for a successful application.