Question on approved Extended Family Exemption (committed relationship)

[danny2021]

I am still in shock, my girlfriend in a large Asian country that begins with C (working there, not her home country) received authorization for exemption for a visitor visa, based on extended family (committed relationship). I'm a Cdn citizen by birth.

I never imagined this would be approved, in fact one potential plan we had was for a rejected VV to lead to evidence of an immigration barrier for conjugal sponsorship (but that's not the point).

How strong does that TRV approval count for once she reaches the border? I was so convinced of rejection that I am very scared now that the border agent will "overrule" the approval and find that she has weak ties to country of residence and a strong reason to remain in Canada, because I am here. She has savings, a job/contract/work permit, and a letter from employer granting leave, that's about it. No previous comparable international travel. I have visited her twice.

To me it seems a bit strange to allow for committed relationships as extended family exemption when that situation, in the past, would be a prime reason for rejecting a TRV. But I am not complaining, as long as she does not get refused entry at the border.

Has anyone personally had this work or heard of this working before?
Any suggestions for the strongest preparations to make for arrival in Canada?
Am I right to think that any mention of future marriage plans would be a drawback? We were in fact also discussing marrying in her home country later this year, assuming the VV wouldn't work.
Are there any stories about border agents searching phones for discussion of relationship plans etc.?

We are very keen to follow all laws and be truthful in all interactions, but want to be wise about her arrival and know what to expect. Thanks for sharing any advice and experiences.

 

[danny2021]

Well, upon receiving news of my partner's visitor visa approval, I asked the questions above and then read all the stories I could find here of those who were denied entry at the border (that is my worst fear, and I heard many others say similar). I'm writing this for my own benefit of getting it clear in my head. If you have a similar personality as mine of overanalyzing and feeling anxious with uncertainty maybe you will find it helpful too. Please reply with any more suggestions or correct/clarify anything I am mistaken about.

Time will tell how my experience plays out. But reading many experiences actually calmed my anxiety about not knowing what to expect -- although there are always exceptions and variation, the process at the border seems mostly predictable, and among those denied entry, there were some recurrent issues, which I am hoping to learn from and not repeat.

(One such issue I noticed was, "Having unrealistic expectations because of unfamiliarity with or choosing to ignore Canadian laws." I myself may not like or agree with all those laws, and laws are not always applied fairly, but the outcome is often guided by the law, and seems worth being acquainted with.)

Again, the points below are neither original from me nor endorsed by me (I am only bracing for my partner's first visit to Canada). Just my attempt to compile common themes from other individuals' experiences and frequently shared advice, on the topic of "Successful entry at the border on a visitor visa."

- Whereas the initial TRV approval process is more rigorous, a border agent will be looking broadly for any inconsistencies or glaring issues, and does not have the time or ability to dig too deep as long as evidence is complete, thorough, and satisfactory (but you may be examined much more closely, especially if you arouse suspicion)
- It's critical that the visit meets the definition of a "visit": a brief stay of predetermined length with a specific purpose and a plan to leave; and should always be called such, and there should be no hint of hoping or attempting to remain longer to study, work, or live
- A return ticket, proof of a fulltime, well-paying job at home/country of residence, a letter from employer permitting leave with a specified duration, proof of property, business or family requiring one's presence back there, are all strong evidence of an intention to leave Canada at the end of the visit (obviously, these should all be in agreement with each other and properly documented)
- The visit should be around 2-3 weeks (I've mentally added 2 more weeks to account for quarantine these days) as a reasonable amount of time a visitor would be both able to be away from responsibilities at home, and not raise questions about some other intent
- You should be prepared to speak confidently, consistently, and honestly about plans: where you'll be staying, what you'll be doing, who you will see, how you will afford things, practical details of how you'll subsist during the visit. Answers that are vague, contradictory, or impractical can cause problems. Also, it's probably wise to answer succinctly the question which was asked. Give further detail if requested.
- Be aware of what you have agreed to and are bound by in terms of all regulations, e.g. COVID or other travel restrictions, and be ready to demonstrate how you have planned for how you will abide by these rules.
- For whatever reason, you may be subject to close scrutiny of documents, luggage, and electronic devices (email, texts/messages, photos, etc.) and anything here that is not consistent with a temporary visit and previous statements can be very problematic. e.g. More belongings than would be necessary, unnecessary items for a visit (clothing that's wrong for the season, household items that would already be available where you're staying, personal items or documents which are irrelevant to the required supporting documents at the border, etc.), messages mentioning or showing intentions to work, study, or stay long-term....
- Have copies of documents which you used for the original application and be familiar with them and what is contained in them.

As an overall, personal interpretation, I might summarize the points above with the idea of communicating, with evidence, that one is a "welcome houseguest" who takes responsibility for themselves, has a legitimate purpose to visit, won't cause problems during the stay, and leaves when it is time to leave. Agents (or, long-time posters here) have probably heard and seen every attempt to hide or rationalize "unwelcome behaviour" and identify such quickly.

 

[hopefultraveler]

Hi danny2021!

Huge congrats on your visitor visa approval on the basis of a committed relationship. I came across your experience on this forum and decided to reach out to you because I’m in a similar situation and was hoping you could provide me with some advice regarding the application process as I hope to echo your success.

I too plan to apply for a visitor visa exemption for my boyfriend living in Cuba. I, myself, am also a Canadian citizen. We have been in a committed relationship for over 4 years at this point and were planning on getting married before COVID hit, which has disturbed such plans. I was hesitant to apply under this new category at first since I know rejections for individuals in relationships are common due to being classifieds as a potential immigrant? However, I decided to give it a go and plan to provide the strongest application possible.

I am wondering, what type of supporting evidence did you provide that guided your success? What did you cite as your reason for travel? Finally, in your letter of invitation, did you mention at all your plans to get married? I also seem to think that that piece of information may act as a deterrent for approval.

Thanks a million for your input in advance! I sincerely hope your girlfriend’s arrival goes smoothly as planned!

 

[danny2021]

Thanks for your kind wishes! I was amazed how fast the response came when applying under this extended family exemption, and honestly wish I done it sooner. I hope it also works out well for you.

The supporting evidence was mostly just what was requested, maybe even slightly less in our case.
- I provided a copy of my previous year's CRA notice of assessment (downloaded from MyCRA) with a very basic letter of invitation. In that letter I mentioned that we have been in each other's presence previously (didn't supply any proof), and that she would be staying with me and I'd be supporting her for the stay, and my basic information as far as passport number, DOB, address, copy of my passport bio page.
- The statutory declaration for proof of relationship IMM0006, notarized
- Employer letter confirming her employment, salary, and permission to be away for one month.
- Her bank records for the past 3 months
- Proof of upfront medical
- Purpose of travel letter (I am so-and-so, I am coming to Canada to visit my partner, staying at his address and he's providing the basics etc.) Didn't mention anything about marriage or plans to marry. (I'm sure you've read the government instructions for putting "Other", "COVID-19" on the visitor visa application itself as "purpose of travel".)
- The rest of the required forms for application itself, family info, travel history, etc. I guess these or others may be country-specific.

I can be a bit of a perfectionist and this made me procrastinate on submitting because I just saw how each bit of documentation potentially had some flaw to it. I made myself just submit what I had and not obsess over it, just to get it done, expecting to get a rejection (as I mentioned initially, the "plan" was actually that we'd get a rejection and use that towards an "immigration barrier" for conjugal sponsorship.) But hey, a couple weeks later, the day after she got her biometrics done, we had approval! (the regular wait time for her country was listed at 400+ days). So I definitely encourage you also to provide all that's requested as best as you can and I will be curious to hear how it goes for you... hopefully this helps a little but let me know if I can answer anything else.

 

[canuck78]

Thanks for your kind wishes! I was amazed how fast the response came when applying under this extended family exemption, and honestly wish I done it sooner. I hope it also works out well for you.

The supporting evidence was mostly just what was requested, maybe even slightly less in our case.
- I provided a copy of my previous year's CRA notice of assessment (downloaded from MyCRA) with a very basic letter of invitation. In that letter I mentioned that we have been in each other's presence previously (didn't supply any proof), and that she would be staying with me and I'd be supporting her for the stay, and my basic information as far as passport number, DOB, address, copy of my passport bio page.
- The statutory declaration for proof of relationship IMM0006, notarized
- Employer letter confirming her employment, salary, and permission to be away for one month.
- Her bank records for the past 3 months
- Proof of upfront medical
- Purpose of travel letter (I am so-and-so, I am coming to Canada to visit my partner, staying at his address and he's providing the basics etc.) Didn't mention anything about marriage or plans to marry. (I'm sure you've read the government instructions for putting "Other", "COVID-19" on the visitor visa application itself as "purpose of travel".)
- The rest of the required forms for application itself, family info, travel history, etc. I guess these or others may be country-specific.

I can be a bit of a perfectionist and this made me procrastinate on submitting because I just saw how each bit of documentation potentially had some flaw to it. I made myself just submit what I had and not obsess over it, just to get it done, expecting to get a rejection (as I mentioned initially, the "plan" was actually that we'd get a rejection and use that towards an "immigration barrier" for conjugal sponsorship.) But hey, a couple weeks later, the day after she got her biometrics done, we had approval! (the regular wait time for her country was listed at 400+ days). So I definitely encourage you also to provide all that's requested as best as you can and I will be curious to hear how it goes for you... hopefully this helps a little but let me know if I can answer anything else.

The fact that she likely has a decent job and has been well established in her country likely helped although IRCC is becoming more flexible due to covid. An applicant from Cuba likely has less chance of approval because of a higher risk of not returning home and less lucrative employment. Never hurts to try. Proving that you have a good reason to return to your home country and this is just a visit is a major factor in approval.

 

[danny2021]

The fact that she likely has a decent job and has been well established in her country likely helped although IRCC is becoming more flexible due to covid. An applicant from Cuba likely has less chance of approval because of a higher risk of not returning home and less lucrative employment. Never hurts to try. Proving that you have a good reason to return to your home country and this is just a visit is a major factor in approval.

I'm sure her job played a significant factor. But I might also note she is in her country of residence on a work permit and comes from a country marked by civil war and high unemployment.

 

[CannaChick]

I am still in shock, my girlfriend in a large Asian country that begins with C (working there, not her home country) received authorization for exemption for a visitor visa, based on extended family (committed relationship). I'm a Cdn citizen by birth.

I never imagined this would be approved, in fact one potential plan we had was for a rejected VV to lead to evidence of an immigration barrier for conjugal sponsorship (but that's not the point).

How strong does that TRV approval count for once she reaches the border? I was so convinced of rejection that I am very scared now that the border agent will "overrule" the approval and find that she has weak ties to country of residence and a strong reason to remain in Canada, because I am here. She has savings, a job/contract/work permit, and a letter from employer granting leave, that's about it. No previous comparable international travel. I have visited her twice.

To me it seems a bit strange to allow for committed relationships as extended family exemption when that situation, in the past, would be a prime reason for rejecting a TRV. But I am not complaining, as long as she does not get refused entry at the border.

Has anyone personally had this work or heard of this working before?
Any suggestions for the strongest preparations to make for arrival in Canada?
Am I right to think that any mention of future marriage plans would be a drawback? We were in fact also discussing marrying in her home country later this year, assuming the VV wouldn't work.
Are there any stories about border agents searching phones for discussion of relationship plans etc.?

We are very keen to follow all laws and be truthful in all interactions, but want to be wise about her arrival and know what to expect. Thanks for sharing any advice and experiences.

Hi Danny, first of all thank you so much for sharing your experience, very helpful! I am currently dealing with a similar situation where the partner (who meets the definition of "extended family" under committed relationship/extended family guidelines ) wants to come to Canada for a 4-8 week visit. The person visiting is a citizen/resident of Vietnam, which typically involves the requirement for a VISITOR VISA to visit Canada.

I was under the impression that they will still need to apply for a VISITOR VISA online from Vietnam, but then while the Visitor Visa application is being processed, they also need to send the IMM0006 (Application/Statutory Declaration for extended family entry into Canada under Quarantine Act) form and other proof of relationship to the CIC COVID travel exceptions email address as per the instructions here. These instructions also say that they'll want the info for the pending Visitor Visa application, and will endeavour to make a decision within 14 business days.

It is my understanding that your application was approved under this 14 business days clause, but my question is, you mention this was an "exemption" to the Visitor Visa - did you ONLY apply using the IMM0006 form and accompanying proof/documents, or did you also separately apply for the VISITOR VISA online first, as would be the typical process for a visitor to Canada pre-COVID?

Please let me know and thanks again for sharing your experience and allowing us to pick your brain!

 

[CannaChick]

Also, what did you use as the REASON For why your significant other was coming to Canada? or what's the most common/general reason that people have had success with under these new COVID guidelines? Thanks again for your consideration.

 

[danny2021]

Also, what did you use as the REASON For why your significant other was coming to Canada? or what's the most common/general reason that people have had success with under these new COVID guidelines? Thanks again for your consideration.

Sorry if this is a hurried response. Definitely it involved the visitor visa application along with the statutory declaration IMM0006. The "exemption" is an exemption from the Covid travel restrictions, not from the visa process.

This is all detailed on the government site:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/visitors/visa.html

The reason we gave was pretty much just repeating that this was extended family "reunification", for my girlfriend to see me for a visit. Basic.

Edit to add -- we submitted everything at the same time, visa application plus statutory declaration. Make sure to follow the instructions in the link above to submit with reason: Other description: COVID-19 as described so that you are in the priority processing stream.

 

[CannaChick]

Thank you. I might have to come pick your brain again while doing the application. Much appreciated!

 

[CannaChick]

But you submitted the VISA application online and then emailed them the rest of the information, correct?

Thanks,

C.

 

[danny2021]

But you submitted the VISA application online and then emailed them the rest of the information, correct?

Thanks,

C.

Nope, I submitted it all at once for the VV application. I attached the IMM0006 among all those documents (can't remember where exactly)

 

[Rhea Jose]

I am still in shock, my girlfriend in a large Asian country that begins with C (working there, not her home country) received authorization for exemption for a visitor visa, based on extended family (committed relationship). I'm a Cdn citizen by birth.

I never imagined this would be approved, in fact one potential plan we had was for a rejected VV to lead to evidence of an immigration barrier for conjugal sponsorship (but that's not the point).

How strong does that TRV approval count for once she reaches the border? I was so convinced of rejection that I am very scared now that the border agent will "overrule" the approval and find that she has weak ties to country of residence and a strong reason to remain in Canada, because I am here. She has savings, a job/contract/work permit, and a letter from employer granting leave, that's about it. No previous comparable international travel. I have visited her twice.

To me it seems a bit strange to allow for committed relationships as extended family exemption when that situation, in the past, would be a prime reason for rejecting a TRV. But I am not complaining, as long as she does not get refused entry at the border.

Has anyone personally had this work or heard of this working before?
Any suggestions for the strongest preparations to make for arrival in Canada?
Am I right to think that any mention of future marriage plans would be a drawback? We were in fact also discussing marrying in her home country later this year, assuming the VV wouldn't work.
Are there any stories about border agents searching phones for discussion of relationship plans etc.?

We are very keen to follow all laws and be truthful in all interactions, but want to be wise about her arrival and know what to expect. Thanks for sharing any advice and experiences.

Hi Danny,
Congratulations on being reunited with your partner! I'm in the process of doing the same. Just as your partner I too am not in my home country. I just had a question regarding the proof you submitted to show that you are in a committed relationship? Did you only provide the notarized declaration form? Or did you have to provide pictures, travel history together etc. My boyfriend and I have not seen each other in 3 years but have spent time together in person. Just want to make sure if this would not be an issue while applying for exemption under extended family.

Thanks!

 

[danny2021]

Hi Danny,
Congratulations on being reunited with your partner! I'm in the process of doing the same. Just as your partner I too am not in my home country. I just had a question regarding the proof you submitted to show that you are in a committed relationship? Did you only provide the notarized declaration form? Or did you have to provide pictures, travel history together etc. My boyfriend and I have not seen each other in 3 years but have spent time together in person. Just want to make sure if this would not be an issue while applying for exemption under extended family.

Thanks!

In this case, only the statutory declaration!

 

[CannaChick]

In this case, only the statutory declaration!

Hi Danny,
Just a few more questions (thanks again for being so helpful!). Regarding the purpose of the visit and timing of the travel for the VISITOR VISA application -since touristy stuff is closed due to COVID, what type of itinerary did you provide for your partner's trip? In the same line of thinking, what did you do for specified date of travel and plane tickets or hotel bookings? Do you base the information on "Anticipated" travel dates? How far in the future did you say she would be visiting? And did you actually go ahead and purchase a round trip flight ticket and make hotel reservations for the "anticipated" date, or how does all that work? I'm going to try to make mine as close to yours as possible since you're in pretty much the same exact situation. Thanks again so much!

-C.