Canadian Immigration Department changes rules for immigrant common-law partners

A change in Immigration Department policy, announced late Friday, will allow most spouses and common-law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be allowed to remain in Canada while their immigration applicationsare considered.

"This change addresses real concerns about the hardships that some couples would experience if they had to be separated during the application process," said Joe Volpe, Citizenship and Immigration Minister.

“The change, which applies to couples who are in a genuine relationship, comes into effect immediately," the department said in a statement. Unsuccessful applicants will have to leave Canada so the immigration program is protected from abuse, the minister added.

The department said "spouses and common-law partners who apply outside Canada will continue to be processed on a priority basis so that families can be quickly reunited."