Enter as a tourist and apply for PR, ¿Problems at the border?

[redhotgalego]

Hello everyone,

So I´m from Spain and my plan is to enter Canada next month with a visitor Visa. Once there, marry my Canadian fiancé and apply for PR inland. It´s my understanding that the visitors Visa means that I will leave the country before it expires. However, I will remain and live with my wife under implied status for the years after. Could I have any trouble at the border if I tell the truth? Should I rather say that I´m visiting and will leave in a couple months? Could I find any trouble if I enter without a return plane ticket?

Thank you guys, being from the European Union, where you travel through countries with even being stopped, makes North American borders scare the shit out of me.

 

[Ponga]

The most important thing is to never lie to a CBSA officer.

Having said that, there's no reason to say anything other than you are coming to Canada as a visitor. Having a (fully refundable) return ticket would be a good idea, but it's certainly not mandatory. If asked specifically is you are coming to get married, you should tell the truth. It is NOT a valid reason for CBSA to refuse entry, but they could ask a series of questions to make sure you understand the rules, as they pertain to those `visiting' Canada.

Are you aware that an Outland application would probably be much faster for you? You can submit the Outland application from within Canada, but would need to apply for a visitor extension before your status expires. Having proof of an application submitted usually all but guarantees the extension will be approved.

Regarding Implied Status: You are only covered under implied status if you submit the sponsorship application AND the Open Work Permit (OWP), if applying Inland. The PR application alone does NOT grant Implied Status.

If applying Outland, you simply apply for a visitor extension. You are not eligible for the OWP with an Outland application.
While you are awaiting a reply for the extension, you are under Implied Status.


Good luck!