For immigration purposes, a common-law partnership generally requires at least 12 consecutive months of living together in a marriage-like relationship.
Important eligibility information: Evidence of cohabitation and a genuine relationship is central. Short, temporary absences may be consistent with cohabitation; living apart for most of the qualifying period is not.
12 months of qualifying cohabitation
Genuine ongoing partnership
Sponsor and applicant eligibility
Who qualifies as a common-law partner?
A couple generally must have cohabited continuously for at least one year in a conjugal relationship. The relationship must be genuine and not entered into primarily for immigration purposes.
Proof of living together
Useful evidence may include jointly addressed leases, bills, bank or insurance records, government correspondence and consistent records of the shared home. The specific document checklist depends on the application.
Inside or outside Canada
The appropriate sponsorship class depends on where the applicant lives and other eligibility factors. Applicants in Canada should not assume an open work permit is automatic.
Sponsor responsibilities
Sponsors must satisfy status, age and other eligibility rules and sign a legally binding undertaking. The usual undertaking for a sponsored partner outside Quebec is three years after permanent residence.
Documents to prepare
The exact checklist depends on the sponsorship class and personal circumstances. Typical evidence includes identification and civil-status records, relationship documents, sponsor status and residence records, required police certificates, medical examination instructions and translations where applicable. Use the current IRCC application checklist before submission.
Application process
Confirm the correct sponsorship category and whether applications are currently being accepted.
Check the sponsor's eligibility, undertaking and any financial obligations.
Collect identity, relationship and category-specific supporting evidence.
Complete the applicable sponsorship and permanent residence forms and pay current government fees.
Submit through the prescribed IRCC process and respond to any requests for biometrics, medical exams or additional evidence.
Track IRCC communications and complete the finalization steps if approved.
Peerless Immigration Services assists with preliminary eligibility reviews, document planning, application preparation and coordination with authorized Canadian immigration professionals where regulated advice or representation is required. Every application is assessed individually; approval cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Dating for one year does not automatically establish a common-law relationship. For Canadian immigration purposes, partners generally must have lived together continuously for at least 12 months in a marriage-like relationship, subject to the applicable requirements.
WhatsApp conversations may support evidence of a genuine relationship, but they do not replace proof of qualifying cohabitation. Supporting documents may include joint leases, utility bills, shared financial records and correspondence showing a common residential address.
No. Marriage is not required if the couple meets the Canadian immigration definition of common-law partners and satisfies the applicable sponsorship eligibility requirements.
Certain common-law partners residing in Canada may qualify to apply for an open work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed. Eligibility depends on the applicable IRCC requirements, including the applicant's circumstances and immigration status.
Information updated for 2026. Immigration rules, intake availability and fees can change. Confirm current requirements with IRCC before applying.
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