What are my options? Thanks!

[Theodore]

Hi Everyone.

So I have been doing a lot of research recently and still am unclear about what my options are. I want to figure everything out before it is too late like some of the posters on this forum.

So my story is this: My girlfriend that I met in the states has been visiting me and go back to work in Vegas whenever she is short on money. Recently they hasselled her at the border asking her if she was intending to work here illegally and how she can only stay for 6 months.

Things are getting pretty serious between us. I just graduated from university, so I am looking forward to taking the next step in my life. I want to take steps into having her live here, but currently I am more worried about her being able to even come up to visit. She is a US citizen.

What are my options per say to ensuring that she can stay in Canada?

 

[Leon]

Marry her and then apply to sponsor her for PR

 

[Theodore]

Thanks for the reply!

Well, that could be an option but is there anything else?

 

[Leon]

If you don't want to get married, if you can manage to live together (visit visa extension perhaps) for 12 months, then you would qualify to apply for sponsorship as common law partners. If you don't want to sponsor her, she can try to get a study permit or work permit in Canada on her own.

 

[Theodore]

Is it difficult to get a extended visa?

 

[Leon]

Many people have been approved so I don't think it is too difficult. She would have to prove that she can support herself without working in Canada or you would have to prove that you are supporting her.