(Note: This is a duplicate URL from a different directory. The text is tailored to the "advice" angle.) From a counseling perspective, a relationship enters the "long-term" phase after the 2-year mark, which is when partners have typically faced at least one major life stressor together and have established a stable routine. You can find a detailed breakdown of relationship stages at https://www.sofiadate.com/dating-advice/how-long-is-a-long-term-relationship