I am Canadian in Egypt since February, get married an Egyptian wife and would like to take her with me back to Canada ASAP. can I just go to airline/airport and say I am exempt “family reunion - COVID-19 “ or I still need to apply for visa “TRV“?. My marriage contract is final and certified.
Also, applying for TRV would it effect my sponsorship application or do I need to start sponsorship process before TRV?
Thanks
If your wife needed a visa before covid, she will still need one and needs to apply in advance and receive visa before going to Canada. (The 'exemption' is that a regular TRV visa holder - without immediate family in Canada - would not be allowed to travel under covid rules at all).
TRV application will not affect your sponsorship application. Regardless of whether you apply for sponsorship before or after TRV, it does not mean chances of getting a TRV are good. If she does get a visa, you can go to Canada together and apply inland.
Important point: if/when she applies for TRV, do not lie about her marital status. That could get her banned from visiting Canada at all and indeed coming to Canada as a permanent resident.
Unforutnately, if she does not get a TRV, she will have to apply outland and remain outside Canada until PR or TRV approved (she can apply multiple times for TRV, although doesn't mean she will get approved). If you are a Canadian citizen, you can remain with her outside Canada, but will need to demonstrate your intent to return to Canada.
The usual scrutiny of your marriage and relationship will apply. Make your application solid rather than rushing it.
