Spouse sponsorship

[arpitask]

My fiance is a PR resident living in Canada. We are getting married in March (outside Canada).

I see that the best option for us to start our lives in Canada soon (i.e. me getting a Visa/PR to move to Canada with the option to work) is to apply for a Tourist Visa and once I'm inside the country, apply for an inland spouse sponsorship with open work permit.

1. Is this feasible? Are there any risks or caveats to keep in mind?

2. Will my chances of a tourist visa be affected if the application shows that I'm the spouse of a PR holder? What criteria would help strengthen my chances of getting a tourist visa in such a case? (e.g. hold on to my job outside Canada, show I have more ties outside Canada in the form of my bank statements, assets etc.)

3. My research from two months ago seems to indicate inland sponsorship is faster than out land spousal sponsorship. Is this still true?

4. In the inland scenario, how long should we set aside to (1) apply for spousal sponsorship i.e. initiate it (2) apply and receive a TWP? Can I start interviewing for jobs while I wait for the TWP?

5. What happens if my tourist visa expires in between all this?

Thank You

 

[k.h.p.]

1. If you are denied a tourist visa, you have to apply outland. Outland sponsorships in general are going faster than inland, but of course, don't get a work permit and have at least a few months of separation.

2. Yes. TRV applications for spouses of PRs/citizens are frequently denied. Demonstrating ties outside Canada that make it mandatory for you to leave after a short visit may help.

3. No, it's not true. Most outland sponsorships move a lot faster than inland - AOR is in 2-3 weeks as opposed to 60 days, etc. etc. etc.

4. 12 months for the whole sponsorship. 3-5 months for the OWP. You can interview for jobs, but be aware that you can't be hired.

5. If you get a tourist visa, you have implied status in Canada until you have a decision on the OWP provided you applied for the OWP while you had valid status and it didn't expire at any time. If you are granted an OWP, you have status from the OWP.

 

[canuck78]

1. Yes if you can get a TRV and can remain in Canada during the sponsorship process. You may not have access to healthcare during that time.
2. Yes. That is why people apply for a TRV before marriage. Would apply now if you are getting married in March.
2. No Outland tends to be a bit faster but every case is different. Also depends on your country of origin.
4. Not quite sure what you are asking. You don’t want a TRP you need a TRV unless you come from a visa exempt country.
5. You can extend your visitor status online if you have not received AOR from your OWP which you would file with the inland sponsorship.