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This covers the two most common relationship categories in spousal sponsorship: legally married spouses, and common-law partners who have cohabited continuously for at least 12 months. Both routes lead to the same permanent residence outcome, but the evidence required differs slightly.
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This covers the two most common relationship categories in spousal sponsorship: legally married spouses, and common-law partners who have cohabited continuously for at least 12 months. Both routes lead to the same permanent residence outcome, but the evidence required differs slightly.
Key figures at a glance
Source sequence preservedTechnical reference Eligibility and pathway detail | ||
|---|---|---|
| Aspect | Married spouse | Common-law partner |
| Legal requirement | Valid marriage certificate | 12 consecutive months of cohabitation |
| Cohabitation required before applying | Not necessarily | Yes — 12 months minimum |
| Core evidence focus | Marriage validity and ongoing relationship | Proof of continuous cohabitation and shared life |
Living together continuously at the same address for at least 12 months, with evidence such as a shared lease, joint bills, or mail addressed to both partners at that address.
Short, explainable separations (such as work travel) don't necessarily reset the count, but longer or unclear gaps can raise questions that need to be addressed directly in the application.
Not inherently — both are assessed on the same genuineness standard; common-law files simply need to establish the cohabitation requirement in addition to relationship genuineness.
CTA: Book a Free Consultation to confirm which relationship category fits your situation.
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