couple questions about marrying a us citizen (coming to canada.)

[mapleleafs2011]

I'd like to marry a US citizen and bring her to Canada. We plan on having our wedding in 2012 but we'd like to get married soon so we can begin the immigration process for now. I just had a couple questions I hope someone can answer.

1. Getting the marriage license in Vancouver, BC. - I have my fiance's passport, I guess this will do for her fine as proof? Will they give me any hassle at the time of applying for the license because she's a US citizen?

2. What would be the actual quickest way for us to get married after we get the marriage license? (not  looking for a special ceremony or anything, as I mentioned the celebration will be in 2012 as we will be saving up anyways)

3. We visit each other regularly. After we're married, when crossing the border. Should we say we're going to see our husband\wife but have documentation\proof that we will return home and\or immigration papers that say we're applying for her to come to canada?

Thanks in advance!

[jayde]

In my experience, when I was researching getting married in Alberta (we ended up getting married in Indianapolis), the registries office just told us that we both had to attend and bring government issued photo ID.  I can't remember if they said one or two pieces, but if she has her passport, bring her drivers license too maybe.

The fastest way to get married might not be the best way to get married because from what I understand, when I've spoken to the call centre, they are very focused on whether or not family was at the ceremony and are aware of the relationship.  Your application hinges on proving that you have a genuine relationship, so the more photos you have of your actual wedding day, the better... the more family you have there, the better.

We got married in a small church in Indianapolis (we had planned on going to the court house but his mother went out of her way to find us a church on pretty short notice).  I look back and honestly, even though we are planning a big reception here in Canada when he finally lives here, I am very thankful for the photos I have of the actual day, it breaks my heart that my family wasn't there, and had the situation been different, we would have found a way for both families to attend.

I know the sense of urgency to get the license signed and the official certificate to show that you are legally married, but this will forever be your wedding day, make sure it is everything that you want it to be and take LOTS of pictures.  We only had 10 people total at our wedding (including us) but it was meaningful and his family was all there which helps me when I look back at the day but also helps our case with CIC.  

You need to prove that your families know of your marriage when you are trying to prove the authenticity of the relationship... wedding photos and a celebration help.  They even ask about a wedding reception in the application and about who attended the wedding.  

I don't know about everyone and every case, but that is what I was told from teh call centre and I am hoping it helps my case and might help yours.  Good luck!

Oh... and yes, have her bring proof that she still has an established life in the states, like paystubs, a letter from her employer, a rental agreement or lease.  Anything to show that she will be compelled to return to the states.  And I've heard that bringing a copy of the receipt showing you paid for your sponsorship application helps.  I scanned and emailed it to my husband and he will be coming tomorrow to visit for two weeks.  I hope we have no hiccups at the airport... /crossing my fingers.  We have both been honest when crossing the border, even when I went to get married, I took my youngest son's birth certificate and showed them that his birthday was a few days after I was supposed to return home, just so that they'd understand I'd have to return at least for a birthday party.  Anything to convince them that you have no intention of overstaying your welcome.  They will question you and ask some personal questions, and sometimes warn you about overstaying and to "make sure you go back home when you're supposed to", but so far we've had no issues.  I hope that is how it goes tomorrow too lol.

[mapleleafs2011]

Thanks for the reply and the experience you've had.

I think I have a pretty valid case as.. I live in Vancouver, finance lives in Seattle. We see each other regularly, we have tons of pictures (1000+) (including family.)

All of my family lives in Toronto with the exception of one sister who lives here in Vancouver. I'll be sure to make sure she is at the wedding reception and some photos are taken. We have visited Toronto together and also have some photos of us back east.

We've also been with each other for over a year and a half now.

[jayde]

I hope it all goes really smoothly for you!  I know here in Alberta, we had the option of just getting someone to officiate a ceremony for us.  It can be done very simply and quickly.  I don't know if the rules are any different in BC but I'd look online for a marriage officient or call down to your municipal building and see if they have anyone who can perform the ceremony.

[mapleleafs2011]

Thanks!

I'm excited!