Common-Law Relationships in Alberta: Not What You Might Think

Alberta does not recognize common-law marriage. Unlike British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and several other provinces and territories, Alberta has no legal status for "common-law" couples regardless of cohabitation duration.

Legal Options in Alberta

Couples in Alberta have two primary paths for legal recognition:

• Legal Marriage: Obtain a marriage license and solemnize the union through a civil or religious ceremony.
• Adult Interdependent Partnership (AIP): Alberta's unique legal framework for unmarried couples. Partners become AIPs after:

1. Living together in a "relationship of interdependence" for 3+ years, OR
2. Living together with a child (by birth or adoption), OR
3. Signing a written Adult Interdependent Partner Agreement

AIP Rights and Responsibilities

AIPs gain many spousal-like rights regarding property division, support obligations, inheritance, and decision-making—similar to but distinct from marriage. The Family Property Act and Wills and Succession Act govern these rights.

Couples should consult a family lawyer to understand their specific situation and consider a cohabitation agreement to clarify property and support expectations.