The Government of Canada has repealed immigration rules that required migrants sponsored by Canadian spouses to stay in the relationship for two years before their permanent residency was fully granted. Originally conceived as a means to deter people from seeking to immigrate to Canada through non-genuine relationships, the condition was critiqued for potentially placing abused spouses and partners in a vulnerable position as leaving the relationship was impossible without losing their permanent residence status. This imbalance was compounded by the fact that only the sponsored spouse or partner stood to lose their status if the two year cohabitation condition was not met.

An exception was provided to the two year cohabitation requirement if the sponsor died during the two-year period, or in cases of abuse or neglect. However, this did not take into account the already sizable systemic and social barriers that face victims of domestic abuse who face the challenge of proving abuse or neglect, being ostracized from their community and fear being removed from Canada if the exception is not granted.

With the repeal, any case currently under investigation for non-compliance with the cohabitation condition has ceased following this repeal.


Borders Law firm

Abin Abraham

Borders Law firm is one of the best immigration consultants & lawyers in Ontario, Canada. Their way of service is outstanding & Ms.Devika’s service is really appreciable. She will clearly tell the best option that suits you. Special thanks to Jenny, she helped the documentation part in a professional way. I will 100 percentage suggests borders law firm for immigration-related services. Thank you so much for your service.

Michael Freeman

The team at Borders - specifically Devika and Jenny - were an extraordinary support in navigating the Permanent Residency process. They were responsive and easily available, and incredibly detailed and thorough in their work. I strongly recommend them for anyone navigating the immigration process, and feel so grateful for their expertise and kindness that made a tricky process feel smooth.

Param Tooray

Me and my wife turned to Borders Law Firm when I was trying to migrate to Canada as I am a UK citizen and my wife was born in Canada. They made the process really easy for us guiding us all the way. I am now a permanent resident in Canada thanks to Jenny and Devika. We would definitely recommend this firm to anyone looking to move to Canada you will not be disappointed!!

Madhuker Akula

Associated with Borders Law Firm for 13+ years, I have nothing but the best things to say about their services. Devika and Andres are very knowledgeable and they treat you with respect and compassion. Working with Jenny, their Associate Lawyer during the most recent recent experience has further assured that the firm has the best people portraying their wealth of experience in all aspects of Canadian immigration law.

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