Common law visa PR application help

[Lauren0404]

Hi there

I am about to start a PR application though my partner who is Canadian and I am from the UK.

I am planning on using an immigration agent, but before I proceed and spend $$$$$$ has anyone done this process themselves? How easy is it? Also my current visa expires in July so I would need to get a working visa extension once the application has been submitted. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

 

[Rob_TO]

Hi there

I am about to start a PR application though my partner who is Canadian and I am from the UK.

I am planning on using an immigration agent, but before I proceed and spend $$$$$$ has anyone done this process themselves? How easy is it? Also my current visa expires in July so I would need to get a working visa extension once the application has been submitted. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Practically everyone does this process without a lawyer.

Being able to continue working depends on what kind of work permit you currently have, and what kind of family class PR app you intend to submit.

If you apply OUTLAND for PR, there is no work permit involved so you will need to stop working after your current work permit expires. However typically OUTLAND apps are the quickest way to get PR status.

If you apply INLAND for PR, you can submit an Open Work Permit app along with the PR app, and usually you will get the OWP after around 4 months. However depending on what your current work permit is (like IEC/working holiday), you may need to stop working when it expires and wait to receive the OWP before you can start working again.

 

[Bcboundboy]

I am about to start a PR application though my partner who is Canadian and I am from the UK.

Congratulations!

I am planning on using an immigration agent,

You almost certainly don't need one. They might be of use if you have extensive criminality, or have been previously ordered to leave Canada, and can help you navigate the rehabilitation needed. Most people even in that situation don't need one.

but before I proceed and spend $$$$$$ has anyone done this process themselves? How easy is it?

The forms are straightforward. Most people manage them, even when English (or French) isn't their first language. Just follow the instructions in the pack, and any subsequent document requests that arrive.

Also my current visa expires in July so I would need to get a working visa extension once the application has been submitted. Any help is greatly appreciated!

If you want to get a Spousal Open Work Permit while you wait, you will need to file an inland application. The SOWP will probably take about 4 months to arrive after you apply.