Yes, an American citizen can marry a foreign spouse and then move to Canada with their spouse. However, the process of obtaining permanent residency for the foreign spouse in Canada is not automatically guaranteed just by being married to a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
If the American citizen wishes to sponsor their foreign spouse for permanent residency in Canada, they would need to go through the spousal sponsorship process. Here are the general steps involved:
Be eligible to sponsor: The American citizen must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident and meet the eligibility requirements to sponsor their spouse.
Apply for sponsorship: The American citizen will need to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to become a sponsor.
Spouse's application for permanent residency: Once the sponsorship application is approved, the foreign spouse can apply for permanent residency in Canada. The spouse will need to provide supporting documents and meet the eligibility criteria for permanent residency.
Processing of the application: The spouse's application for permanent residency will be processed by IRCC. The processing times can vary depending on the visa office, the volume of applications, and other factors.
Medical and background checks: Both the American citizen (sponsor) and the foreign spouse will need to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates as part of the application process.
Decision: After processing, IRCC will make a decision on the spouse's application for permanent residency. If approved, the spouse will receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can then move to Canada as a permanent resident.
It's essential to note that the spousal sponsorship process can be complex and time-consuming, and the requirements may change over time. It's crucial for the American citizen and their foreign spouse to thoroughly research the most up-to-date information on the official IRCC website or consult with an immigration lawyer for personalized guidance.
Also, keep in mind that moving to Canada as a permanent resident can have various implications, such as tax considerations, healthcare access, and employment opportunities. Therefore, seeking professional advice is highly recommended to navigate the process successfully.