Common-law work permit for partner in Canada - anyone done it?

[bona_fide]

Hi all,

 

I am an American who will be attending the University of Toronto in the fall. I'm hoping that my common-law partner will be able to benefit from Canada's policy of giving work permits to the partners of students. Has anyone done this? Any tips for the process? One thing I am concerned about is that we have only been together for two years, and it's really only a year since we meet their requirements (cohabitation, shared bills, etc). It seems that the minimum is one year, and we do meet the minimum; but will they actually grant the work permit if you're at the minimum?

 

All opinions, tips, etc welcome