how long can i stay in canada with my husband without a visa/perm. temp. res

[barista1]

I'm American. Just married a Canadian. He is not ready to leave Canada due to finances, and I do not want to give up my American Status, but we want to be together... How long can I stay as just a visitor at a time? Do we have to go through Spousal Visa status or etc? Advice please. Thank you.

 

[zardoz]

I'm American. Just married a Canadian. He is not ready to leave Canada due to finances, and I do not want to give up my American Status, but we want to be together... How long can I stay as just a visitor at a time? Do we have to go through Spousal Visa status or etc? Advice please. Thank you.

Normally up to 6 months. After that you must either leave or apply for an extension, which may or may not be granted.
If you wish to be sponsored, the details are on the CIC website.

 

[rhcohen2014]

Normally up to 6 months. After that you must either leave or apply for an extension, which may or may not be granted.
If you wish to be sponsored, the details are on the CIC website.

it's debatable as to whether the 6 mo. allowance is per calendar year or per visit. A bunch of us have been told different things by CBSA. I am one of the ones who have been told it's 6 mo. CALENDAR year, though i haven't tested that theory since getting married. REmember we are not guaranteed a stay for 6 mo., and it really depends on the border agent you deal with. Some will just let you through, others will call you into secondary and interrigate you about everything. It's important to bring proof of your ties to the US (lease/mortgage, paystubs/contract, etc). Just having family and belongings is not enough in the eyes of CBSA. They will ask you your plans for PR, so it's advised to also carry all that paperwork with you (if you have started), as well as your marriage certificate, and copies of any receipts for paying the PR fees. They want to know you are following the rules, and don't intend to overstay or work in Canada. If you haven't started the application process yet, be prepared for more questions. Applying for PR does not mean you give up your american status, just that you are permanently living in Canada.

Always use the term "visitng" when you talk to them. Never suggest you are moving there, and be careful about the amount of belongings you bring with you.

You don't need to apply for any special visa ahead of time. You will request visiting for a certain period of time at the border crossing, and the agent will then determine if they will let you through. you will not be a temporary resident, you will always be a visitor while your application is in process (or not), which means you can not work or study while in Canada.

 

[Ponga]

Applying for PR does not mean you give up your american status, just that you are permanently living in Canada.

One only has to live in Canada 730 days (two years) out of five years, to keep their PR status. You do not have to live in Canada permanently.