What is a conjugal partner and when would I use that category?

The conjugal partner category is a narrow federal immigration category designed for situations where two people are in a genuine, committed, marriage-like relationship but have been unable to meet the cohabitation requirement for common-law status or are unable to marry due to circumstances beyond their control.

The classic example is a same-sex couple in a country where same-sex marriage is illegal and where authorities have prevented them from living together openly. Another example might be immigration barriers that made cohabitation impossible. It is not intended as a workaround for couples who simply chose not to live together or who have not yet been apart long enough.

IRCC subjects conjugal partner applications to intense scrutiny, and officers are instructed to be skeptical of claims that do not reflect genuine barriers. You must demonstrate the relationship is committed and genuine, that you have met in person, and that the reason you have not cohabited or married is a legitimate legal or practical impediment — not simply preference or convenience. Because this is one of the more complex categories to establish, legal advice before applying is strongly recommended.