Getting married, what's next?

[Jadie]

I'm currently on a work permit that expires in January 2012. I'm getting married to my Canadian fiancee in August 2011. When I apply for permanent residency after we get married, can I still work? Only until my work permit is valid, or until the permanent residency is approved....or denied?

[BCguy]

yes and yes

[Jadie]

so...is the yes for work until my work permit expires or work until a decision has been made about my permanent residency?

[rjessome]

I'm currently on a work permit that expires in January 2012. I'm getting married to my Canadian fiancee in August 2011. When I apply for permanent residency after we get married, can I still work? Only until my work permit is valid, or until the permanent residency is approved....or denied?

It depends on if you apply inland or outland in the family class.  Do you know which method you are choosing?

[Jadie]

inland since I will still be here on my current work permit. So as soon as we are married, we will send in the application.

[rjessome]

inland since I will still be here on my current work permit. So as soon as we are married, we will send in the application.

An inland application may not be the best idea.  You should really read up on the process.  Start here:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/sponsor/spouse-apply-who.asp

Once you've read up on the processes and looked at the application forms for both the In Canada process and Overseas process, then read the Family Class topic on this Forum.  There is a lot of information there.

[Baloo]

Also look here at the main post from Leon.

http://www.canadavisa.com/canada-immigration-discussion-board/spousal-sponsorship-t46995.0.html;msg344291#msg344291

[Jadie]

Thank you for all the advice! This is not going to be easy I figured as much considering everything I have applied for in the last 3 years has been the most trying and inefficient process ever. Thank you for the links though!

[Baloo]

Inefficient, hmm..., CIC do have millions of items to deal with, and the process and forms are not always clear.
Maybe my expectation of what they can do is lower than yours, I understand what you mean though.

I guess that general advice for anyone getting into this...

Take the process very seriously, be meticulous when gathering information and completing forms, ask questions here and be patient.
In the meanwhile, applicants should try and enjoy life to the best of their ability.