canadian citizen bringing retired american hubby to canada permanently

[mahalia]

I've been residing in las vegas past 20 years, and wish to return to Canada permanently..still a Canadian citizen.  Married in USA to American born hubby, he is retired, and will not be seeking employment. Can I just bring him across the border with me, and apply for PResidency or what ? He has to come with me, as he is on disability social security and his cheque is directly deposited in his US bank account. So no liability to Canada. I am in good health and will be seeking employment when I get there.  Any suggestions? Also bringing two cats and two dogs..any special papers, other than shot papers.  Last time we were in Canada , we drove across the border , and no problem..back in 2004.

[scylla]

As an American, your husband is allowed to visit Canada - but not come here to live. Sometimes people run into problems at the border when they try to do what you're planning (because border officials can see they are "moving" to Canada rather than just visiting). These problems can occasionally result in someone being refused entry into Canada. Sometimes (although very rarely), Americans have even been slapped with a one year entry bad.

There is never a guarantee you won't have problems. But to reduce the chance, you should submit his PR sponsorship application before you try crossing the border (apply using the Outland route - it's typically much faster for Americans) and bring proof with you that you have paid all of the fees and submitted a complete application. You should also do all of the talking at the border to explain that you have concrete plans to make him a permanent resident of Canada and have submitted the required paperwork to start the process.

And make sure you take out health insurance to cover both yourself and him. You won't be covered for the first three months of residency and he likely won't be covered until after he becomes a permanent resident (depends on which province you plan to live in).

[mahalia]

Thanks so much Scylla...I will take your advice and start paperwork here!