Hi David,

I am currently on a one year student visa that I obtained through Bunac. This visa expires in June 2007 and I wish to have it extended. However, I have been informed by CIC that this type of visa is not extendable.

I would have been living with my Canadian boyfriend (my reason for coming to Canada) for a year in June. He wishes to sponsor me so I can apply for a PR as we are in a common-law relationship. We have all of the necessary documents to proceed, but I've heard that I won't be able to apply until we have lived together for a year. Can you clarify this for me please?

Also if this is true, does it mean that I will have to return to the UK whilst this is being processed? Or is there anything else that I could do to remain in Canada, where I am working. If you could inform me of the current processing times for this type of visa and also if it is to be sent to the Buffalo office, that would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks for your help,
Lucy

Cohabitation for one year is a requirement for eligibility as a common-law partner. It would not be possible to be sponsored in the Family Class prior to such. You are not obliged to return to the UK pending a sponsorship application, however your ability to remain in Canada is subject to the appropriate extension of your temporary resident (visitor) status in Canada.