Spousal Sponsorship - Outland / residing in spouse's country

[nole73]

A total newbie here... I went through the forum quite a bit, but haven't been able to find an answer for my concern.

I'm Canadian citizen and have been residing in Canada for nearly 20 years. I have met a girl in Serbia 4 months ago who I fell in love with and would like to sponsor her so that she can come to Canada. I spent those 4 months straight in Serbia dating and just got back to Canada. I understand that the best way to bring her over is to get married in Serbia (which has yet to happen) and apply for papers while she still lives in Serbia.

Do I have to be in Canada throughout the whole duration of the application process? My issue that I would like to be in Serbia for the time being while the application is being processed. If I'm contacted by CIC in Canada, how quickly do I have to get back to them so that my application doesn't get thrown away? I will return to Canada as soon as she gets the papers as Mississauga is my primary residence. Thanks.

 

[CharlieD10]

Re: Spousal Sponsorship

As a citizen you may be residing outside of Canada while sponsoring your spouse. You will be required to submit proof that you intend to re-settle in Canada when your spouse is approved for PR, so proof that you maintain your residence, bank accounts, etc should be submitted to show you have every intention of returning to Canada with her.

 

[nole73]

Re: Spousal Sponsorship

Thanks for your swift reply.

I'm an IT consultant and have been working on contracts for the past 7 years so I don't have a FT job. I do have assets (mutual funds, TFSA's, RRSP's), own 2 properties (along with mortgages on both of them), have few bank accounts, own a car - so should I submit proof of all the aforementioned things? How can I prove that I own a car for instance (I already paid off my lien last year). I don't have intention of living/working anywhere else, my family (parents and a brother) reside in Canada as well.

 

[CharlieD10]

Re: Spousal Sponsorship

No problem. Proof of your savings and investments, real property etc are all good, they show that your mode of living is still centralized in Canada. Letters from your family mentioning their knowledge of your plans to return and settle down with your wife when PR is approved will also assist in this regard.

 

[nole73]

Thanks again. Your replies have been very helpful.