Spousal Sponsorship Success Story: Kebba Jawneh & Bintou Touray’s Journey to Permanent Residence in Canada
Introduction
Spousal sponsorship is one of the most effective pathways for couples to reunite and build a
future together in Canada. However, many applicants struggle with meeting the strict
eligibility requirements, particularly the one-year cohabitation rule for common-law
partners. At Vizco Visa, we specialize in navigating complex immigration cases, finding legal
exemptions, and securing approvals for our clients.
One such success story is that of Kebba Jawneh and Bintou Touray, a couple who had only
lived together for four months before applying for permanent residence (PR). Despite the
challenges, we were able to obtain Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) for their PR
application and successfully secure a work permit for Kebba while awaiting final approval.
Understanding Spousal and Common-Law Sponsorship in Canada
What is Spousal Sponsorship?
Spousal sponsorship allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their
spouse or common-law partner for PR in Canada. This pathway is designed to promote
family reunification by allowing foreign partners to join their loved ones and eventually
become Canadian permanent residents.
Types of Sponsorship Applications:
1. Inland Sponsorship – The foreign spouse or partner is already in Canada on a temporary
status. They can apply for an open work permit while their PR application is in progress.
2. Outland Sponsorship – The application is processed outside Canada, often through the
applicant’s home country visa office.
Overcoming the One-Year Cohabitation Requirement
A major challenge in common-law sponsorship is proving 12 months of uninterrupted
cohabitation before submitting an application. Many couples struggle with this requirement
due to work, travel, or visa restrictions. However, Canadian immigration policies provide
exemptions in cases where couples can demonstrate a genuine relationship, temporary
separation due to external circumstances, or exceptional humanitarian reasons.
How Vizco Visa Secured Approval for Kebba and Bintou
Step 1: Submitting the Permanent Residence Application
We carefully documented Kebba and Bintou’s relationship, proving that their partnership
was genuine and that they intended to continue living together permanently. Strong
evidence such as lease agreements, communication records, and affidavits from friends and
family was provided.
Step 2: Applying for a Work Permit
After obtaining AOR, we applied for an open work permit for Kebba, allowing him to work
legally in Canada while waiting for his PR approval.
Step 3: Awaiting PR Finalization
Now that Kebba has received his work permit, the final step is waiting for the approval of his
permanent residence status. Since the AOR has been issued and the legal exemption was
accepted, final approval is just a matter of time.
Why This Case is an Exceptional Success
Many common-law applicants are forced to wait a full year before applying for PR, leading to
delays and financial hardship. However, through strategic legal expertise, we were able to
bypass the one-year requirement, secure an AOR quickly, and obtain an open work permit
for Kebba while waiting for PR.
Key Takeaways for Common-Law Sponsorship Applicants
✔ You Don’t Always Need to Wait One Year
✔ AOR is a Crucial Milestone
✔ Legal Expertise Matters
Why Choose Vizco Visa for Spousal Sponsorship?
At Vizco Visa, we specialize in handling complex spousal sponsorship cases, helping couples
reunite in Canada with minimal delays. Our services include eligibility assessments,
document preparation, efficient submission, and work permit applications.
📞 Book a Consultation Now
Ready to start your journey to permanent residence? Get in touch with Vizco Visa and let’s
make it happen!