visiting spouse in Canada for one year

[francetocanada]

Hi...
I am a French citizen married to a Canadian, and am intending to stay in Canada with her for one year. After this period, I have three more years of service in the French military during which time, my spouse will move to France.

My question is, what would be the best way to go about my visit to Canada?
It has been suggested so far, that I should get a return ticket for 6 months to prove that I am going to leave, and also get airline ticket insurance so i can move my return ticket date. Whilst at the same time, applying for a tempory residence permit from within the country.

Does this sound like a reasonable thing to do? there is no way I can work legally that I can see.

Many thanks.. Benoir

 

[Leon]

If your spouse wants to sponsor you for PR of Canada, she can do that. Applying outland through Paris, it would take about a month first to approve her as a sponsor and then an average of 6 months in Paris, see http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/international/05-fc-spouses.asp#europe and after that, you would be able to work in Canada. However, it might not be worth it to go for PR now since you need to stay in Canada at least 2 out of every 5 years or you will lose it. There are exceptions for spouses who are accompanying a Canadian citizen in another country but it might not work for you since it is your wife who is accompanying you and not the other way around.

Another thing you might be able to do would be to apply for a working holiday program if you qualify. Check http://www.international.gc.ca/canada-europa/france/jeunesse-youth/programme_mobilite-mobility_program-en.asp for more information.

Failing that, you can come as a visitor like you said and after 5 months apply to extend your visit status to get the full year.

 

[francetocanada]

Hi Leon. Thank you very much for your help. I am very greatful. I shall look in to those options..
Benoir....