A social media influencer based in Canada has stirred controversy with a bold claim: the increasing number of same-sex marriages in Ontario is, in part, a newer strategy for individuals to fraudulently obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada. The allegation suggests people who might not otherwise be eligible for PR are using this route.
The Viral Claim and Alleged "Easy" Process
The man, in a video that has since gone viral, cited a specific Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) letter addressed to an individual with the surname Kaur and issued on December 2, 2025. He pointed out that many such applications feature common surnames like Kaur or Singh and are getting approved. Outlining the alleged method, he stated, "The only thing you need to do is to have the same ownership which is not that difficult."
He listed documents like shared utility bills (gas, electric, telephone), driver's licenses at the same address, and joint insurance as proof. The key, according to his claim, is to demonstrate cohabitation for a continuous 12-month period to qualify as common-law partners. "And boom! Just like that, you get your PR approved," the influencer asserted, simplifying a complex immigration process.
Social Media Backlash and Broader Debate on Immigration Fraud
As the video gained traction, it ignited a fierce debate online. Many users corroborated that such fraudulent practices have been ongoing for a long time, with some even alleging that certain immigration consultants advise clients to fake relationships. However, a significant counter-narrative emerged.
Several social media users were quick to defend the LGBTQ+ community, arguing that relationship fraud is equally rampant in both straight and gay marriages. They emphasized that the issue is systemic immigration fraud, not one specific to same-sex couples, and that singling them out is unfair and discriminatory.
Understanding Canada's Common-Law Partner Rules
The controversy hinges on Canada's immigration rules for common-law partners. Under Canadian law, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can sponsor their common-law partner for PR. The criteria are clear and apply uniformly to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples:
- The partner must be at least 18 years old and can be of any gender.
- The relationship must be genuine and not solely for gaining PR status.
- They must have lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months, with any separations being short and temporary.
- The partner must not be otherwise inadmissible to Canada.
These rules place the onus on couples to provide extensive documentation to prove the authenticity of their relationship, a process the influencer claimed could be easily manipulated.
Implications and Ongoing Scrutiny
This incident has brought renewed focus on the vulnerabilities within immigration systems worldwide and the lengths to which individuals might go to secure residency in a desired country. While the specific claims made in the video are unverified, they have successfully sparked a necessary conversation about immigration integrity.
The debate underscores a critical point: fraudulent applications undermine the system for genuine applicants, whether they are in opposite-sex or same-sex relationships. It also highlights the ongoing challenge for authorities like IRCC to detect sophisticated fraud while ensuring a fair and efficient process for all. The viral claim, regardless of its veracity, serves as a reminder of the constant cat-and-mouse game between immigration enforcement and those seeking to exploit policy loopholes.
