A prospective marriage visa and a partner visa are both types of visas that allow individuals to enter Canada or the United States for the purpose of marrying or living with their partner who is a Canadian or American citizen or permanent resident. Here are the details of each visa:
Prospective Marriage Visa:
A prospective marriage visa, also known as a fiancé(e) visa, is a visa that allows individuals to enter Canada or the United States for the purpose of marrying their partner who is a Canadian or American citizen or permanent resident. This visa is specifically for couples who are engaged and plan to marry within a certain timeframe after the individual enters the country on the visa.
In Canada, the prospective marriage visa is called the “fiancé(e) visa” and is valid for six months. The individual must marry their Canadian partner within that six-month period in order to apply for permanent residency.
In the United States, the prospective marriage visa is called the “K-1 visa” and is valid for 90 days. The individual must marry their American partner within that 90-day period in order to apply for permanent residency.
Prospective marriage visas require that the couple provide evidence of their genuine relationship, including proof of their engagement, communication between the couple, and any visits or time spent together.
Partner Visa:
A partner visa is a visa that allows individuals to enter Canada or the United States to live with their partner who is a Canadian or American citizen or permanent resident. This visa is for couples who are already in a committed, long-term relationship and plan to live together in Canada or the United States.
In Canada, the partner visa is called the “spousal sponsorship” and is available to both opposite-sex and same-sex couples. The Canadian partner must apply to sponsor their partner for permanent residency, and the application process can take up to a year or more to complete.
In the United States, the partner visa is called the “K-3 visa” or the “CR-1 visa” depending on the circumstances. The American partner must apply to sponsor their partner for a green card, which can take several months or even years to process.
Partner visas require that the couple provide evidence of their genuine relationship, including proof of their shared address, joint bank accounts, joint bills or utilities, and any other documentation that shows they have been living together and sharing their lives as a couple.
Overall, prospective marriage visas and partner visas can be a great option for couples who want to be together in Canada or the United States. However, the application process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s important to carefully review the requirements and seek professional assistance if needed.
Cost of Applying Prospective marriage Visa or Partner Visa
The cost of prospective marriage visas and partner visas varies depending on the country, type of visa, and specific circumstances of the applicant. Here are some general guidelines:
Prospective Marriage Visa:
In Canada, the cost of a prospective marriage visa (fiancé(e) visa) is CAD $1,050, which includes the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee. Additional fees may apply for medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics.
In the United States, the cost of a K-1 visa (prospective marriage visa) is US $265 for the application fee, plus additional fees for medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics.
Partner Visa:
In Canada, the cost of a partner visa (spousal sponsorship) is CAD $1,050 for the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee. Additional fees may apply for medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics.
In the United States, the cost of a K-3 visa or CR-1 visa (partner visa) is US $535 for the application fee, plus additional fees for medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics.
Documents required for prospective marriage visas and partner visas may include:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
- Police certificates
- Medical exams
- Proof of relationship (such as photos, communication records, joint bills, and joint bank accounts) Sponsorship forms and letters of support from the partner who is a citizen or permanent resident.
- Proof of financial support (such as employment letters, tax returns, and bank statements)
It’s important to note that the specific documents required may vary depending on the country, type of visa, and individual circumstances. It’s recommended to consult with a professional immigration lawyer or consultant to ensure all necessary documents are included in the application.