In Canada, marriage and divorce can significantly impact your immigration status. Here’s how each situation affects you:
- Marrying a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
If you marry a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through family sponsorship. The process involves your spouse sponsoring your application, and you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria. The Canadian government takes marriage fraud seriously, so it’s important to ensure your marriage is genuine. If approved, you can obtain permanent resident status and live and work in Canada. - Marrying as a Temporary Resident
If you’re in Canada on a temporary visa (such as a study or work permit) and marry a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may apply for an open work permit or a spousal sponsorship program. Your spouse’s status may help you transition from temporary to permanent residency. - Divorce and Immigration Status
If you divorce after gaining permanent residency through marriage, your immigration status generally won’t be affected, as permanent residency is not dependent on the marital relationship. However, if you are still in the sponsorship process or on a temporary visa, a divorce may affect your application. It’s important to inform immigration authorities of any changes in your relationship status during this process. If the divorce is finalized before permanent residency is granted, your application may be denied or delayed.
