Open work permit and Common-Law partner

[aalon]

Hi,
me and my girlfriend of 2.5 years are planning a move to Canada in 5 months.
The company that hires me will sponsor a TWP for me. The field is software engineering and I have a bachelor degree.

Would my partner be eligible for an open work permit? Can we make a case of common-law relationship?
We do not live together yet.

If it's possible - how should we do it? through my employer or not? When can we start the process?

Thanks!

 

[Bs65]

Hi,
me and my girlfriend of 2.5 years are planning a move to Canada in 5 months.
The company that hires me will sponsor a TWP for me. The field is software engineering and I have a bachelor degree.

Would my partner be eligible for an open work permit? Can we make a case of common-law relationship?
We do not live together yet.

If it's possible - how should we do it? through my employer or not? When can we start the process?

Thanks!

will probably fail at the first hurdle as definition of common law is showing you have been living together for 12 months http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=346&top=14 depending which country and what age look at working holiday program

 

[fkl]

Common law won't apply. Either get married or find an independent basis of visa for her as already advised by Bs65.

CIC needs a genuine relationship. Either it is married or at least you have to be living together for a while. Otherwise, it is just a made up thought of yours and has no legal value.

 

[scylla]

What others have said. You need to get married.