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How long can a Canadian citizen go spend time with spouse during outland application?

Naheulbeuck

Hero Member
Aug 14, 2015
315
191
As mentioned, I would plan for the question but not expect it. I think it is unlikely to be an issue for you, as a citizen there is no problem going for extended period outside of the country, the only possible issue is the intent to relocate and the fact that you will still be working for the Canadian company should mostly take care of the question along with an explanation that you were able to temporarily work remotely and therefore, to reunite with your spouse, went there while the PR was being processed. A letter from your employer at that time saying that you working from another country is temporary, would likely be plenty of proof if needed (no need to get it now, just if you are asked to show intent).

One thing to consider though, and I feel much more likely to impact you, are the tax and immigration implication associated with work done remotely from a different country. This is very country specific and some embraced it with covid, creating new visas specifically for that. Talk to your employer (CPP, EI implications), talk to a tax specialist/do your research about the specific rules of that country.
 

armoured

VIP Member
Feb 1, 2015
15,227
7,755
I'm from a conservative family, so I still live with my parents in Canada, and so I do not yet have a place of my own. I only mention this as I can't use 'owning property in Canada' as one sticking point for returning.

I'm wondering what kind of proof I could have ready in case the event comes up where IRCC does in fact ask for proof of intent to return. Would the following points suffice or would I need additional things as well?

  • Born in Canada and have lived here for my entire life
  • Have a driver's licence here and my primary mobile here
  • Have a full time job here in Canada
  • My primary residence in literally every document imaginable is listed as my Canadian residence
  • Tax paying citizen of Canada

I know it's hard to give a definitive answer, but generally speaking would these points constitute reasonable proof in showing intent of returning? I'm just trying to make sure nothing catches us by surprise, so I'm aiming to be as prepared as possible in the event that this comes up.
This is a tempest in a teapot that I did not mean to stir yp.

Yes to me these things look like a pretty solid case. Personal opinion only. The only thing you might add conceivably is concrete plans to return.

If the question comes up at all, which it might well not.
 

nedvert

Star Member
Jan 23, 2013
143
21
I'm from a conservative family, so I still live with my parents in Canada, and so I do not yet have a place of my own. I only mention this as I can't use 'owning property in Canada' as one sticking point for returning.

I'm wondering what kind of proof I could have ready in case the event comes up where IRCC does in fact ask for proof of intent to return. Would the following points suffice or would I need additional things as well?

  • Born in Canada and have lived here for my entire life
  • Have a driver's licence here and my primary mobile here
  • Have a full time job here in Canada
  • My primary residence in literally every document imaginable is listed as my Canadian residence
  • Tax paying citizen of Canada

I know it's hard to give a definitive answer, but generally speaking would these points constitute reasonable proof in showing intent of returning? I'm just trying to make sure nothing catches us by surprise, so I'm aiming to be as prepared as possible in the event that this comes up.

If you have been approved a sponsor I astronomically low chance of it ever coming up. (Would actually be nonsensical at this point, but it's the government so let's go on if the insanity actually did occur lol) But you are probably online for your taxes right? That and a record of employment would probably be enough and you also have a driver's license.

Just cite all your "local" address proof, record of employment, driver's license and tax details though as I mentioned I doubt it would come up :)

I have "personal" experience as I sponsored my first wife 10 years ago and I was a a full blown expat living in the Philippines for 5 years and never had anyone come back to me. You did answer I assume "NOT" living outside of Canada so in your case they would have to challenge you proactive versus reacting to your application. (Meaning they would have to to something drastic like research your passport and your actual current location which would be extreme)

At which point you could simply highlight/prove all of the above rather easily and go back to your extended vacation :)
 
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