Co-habiting Partners

U.S. visa law does not recognize common-law relationships; therefore a partner or fiancé(e) is not eligible to apply for derivative visa status. In such cases, the partner is required to qualify for a visa in his or her own right. Partners who are members of the household of the principal visa holder and whose primary purpose in traveling to the United States is to accompany that person, may apply for a B-2 visa. Partners who intend working or studying require the appropriate work or student visa.

How long may I remain in the United States?

U.S. immigration at the port of entry determines how long a person may remain in the United States. Most visitors are granted entry for six months but the maximum initial stay is one year.  Those wishing to remain longer will be required to apply for an extension of stay with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services having jurisdiction over their place of residence in the U.S.

How do I apply for the visa?

As your application is based on your relationship to your partner, you are required to furnish evidence of the relationship, for example, a copy of the joint mortgage, rental agreement, bank account, etc. We recommend that you apply for the visa at the same time as your partner; if not, you will be required to furnish a copy of the visa endorsed in your partner's passport in addition to the documents listed above.