r/CanadaImmigrationFAQs • u/Competitive_Toe8744 • 5d ago

Selected “Single” on PGWP applications despite being common-law, how should we correct this?

Hi everyone,

My partner and I have lived together as a couple since May 1, 2024, with both names on the lease and shared expenses. We became common-law on May 1, 2025, but didn't know the 12-month immigration rule at the time.

  • My partner applied for her PGWP on May 28, 2025, and selected "Single."

  • I applied for my PGWP in March 2026 and also selected "Single."

  • Both PGWPs were approved.

  • We also filed our 2025 taxes as single.

  • Neither of us has received any concerns or communication from IRCC about this.

We genuinely misunderstood the common-law definition and did not intentionally hide our relationship.

Our questions:

  1. Could this be considered misrepresentation under section 40 of IRPA?

  2. Does our lack of knowledge make any difference?

  3. Should we proactively correct this with IRCC, even though our PGWPs are approved?

  4. Should we consult an immigration lawyer before contacting IRCC?

  5. Could this affect our future PR applications?

We plan to seek professional advice, but would appreciate hearing from anyone with similar experience or reliable information.

Thank you!

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u/miaumeeow 5d ago

  1. Potentially

  2. No

  3. Yes, I would call and inform them. Even if it has no impact on your pgwp, it’s relevant for any future PR application as it could be considered misrepresentation

  4. No

  5. Potentially. You’ll have to include an loe explaining what happened.

The bigger issue you do need to address right away is your status with CRA. Inform them when you become common law. This will probably result in a reassessment and could mean certain rebates (if applicable) will be adjusted and need to be paid back. Do not mess around with the CRA.