I am from Greece, where I currently live. My boyfriend, who is also Greek, obtained a work permit (duration: 2 years) in August, 2007. He is a medical doctor and he moved in Toronto for a research program. I want to join him there.

We lived together, but not continiously because he had to complete his military service. We own a joint bank account and have documents that prove we have been together for over a year. But I don't know if these are sufficient to consider ourselves as common-law partners.

If we assume that we meet the definition of common-law, I still wonder which is the exact procedure that we should follow. How should I apply, so as to join him and have the right to work there? Is it possible to get an open work permit? If yes, should I do it while I am inside or outside Canada?

I would appreciate any help or advice.

If you meet the requirements of a common law partner, then an application for a work permit may be submitted to a visa office or port of entry (as you are a Greek citizen). Evidence of a satisfactory spousal relationship and of your partner's qualification in a highly skilled occupation as defined by Service Canada would be needed to be eligible for an open work permit under the Significan Benefit to Canada provisions.