Rules for Common-law spouse

[lucy-lu]

I am a British citizen and I have a temporary work permit in BC, I would now like to apply for permanent residency.

I have a company that would be willing to offer me full time employment in a higher skilled role. I also have a Canadian partner whom i have lived with for a year.

I believe i have two options:
- Higher skilled BC Provincial Nominee Program
or
- Sponsorship by Common-law spouse.

Which of these is the better option?
Roughly how long does it take?

Can my partner be classed as Common law if we have lived together as a couple for a year, but he has yet to divorce his ex-wife.

Many thanks for any advice.

Lucy-lu

 

[scylla]

You may not qualify under common law. To qualify under common law you must have lived together for at least one year continuously. Based on your older posts, it looks like you may have lived together until the end of May of this year covering a period of six months. Then you went home and didn't return until July. If you were separated (not living together) for more than three weeks, CIC will most likely say that you broke continuous residency and aren't common law.

 

[lucy-lu]

Ahhh I didn't realize that would count, good to know though. Thank you for your help.

I shall concentrate on the BC PNP option.

Thanks again.