What Is Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program? 

Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their spouse or common-law partner to Canada as a permanent resident. 

The aim of this program is to keep families together by allowing the sponsored person to live, work, and study in Canada. 

There are two main pathways: Inland sponsorship, for those already in Canada, and Outland sponsorship, for those living outside the country. 

To qualify, the sponsor must meet certain financial criteria and agree to support their partner for three years. The process involves submitting an application with proof of the relationship and other required documents.

Once approved, the sponsored spouse receives permanent residency, giving them the same rights as any other permanent resident in Canada. This program helps families build a life together in Canada.

Canada Spouse Visa Eligibility Requirements

Sponsor Requirements

• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Cannot be receiving social assistance, except for disability reasons.
• Must prove the ability to financially support the spouse for three years.

Sponsored Person Requirements

• Must be legally married to the sponsor or in a common-law relationship for at least 12 months.
• Needs to provide proof of a genuine relationship, such as photos, joint financial documents, and communication history.
• Must undergo medical, criminal, and background checks.

General Eligibility

Both the sponsor and the sponsored person should not have any inadmissibility issues, such as serious criminal records.

Meeting these requirements is crucial for a successful application, allowing the sponsored person to live permanently in Canada.

Your Obligations as a Sponsor

Financial Support Commitment

As a sponsor, you must provide financial support for your spouse for at least three years from the date they become a permanent resident. This support covers basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare not provided by public services.

Responsibility Regardless of Relationship Status

Even if your relationship with your spouse ends during this period, your financial responsibility remains. You are obligated to continue supporting them for the full three years.

Avoiding Social Assistance

You must ensure your spouse does not rely on social assistance during the sponsorship period. If they do, you may be required to repay any social assistance benefits they receive.

Note: Fulfilling these obligations is crucial for maintaining your status as a sponsor and ensuring your spouse’s well-being in Canada. Failure to meet these responsibilities could have legal and financial consequences.

The Process of Spousal Sponsorship in Canada 

1. Check Eligibility
   Ensure both you and your spouse meet the eligibility criteria, including age, relationship status, and financial requirements. It’s crucial to verify these details before beginning the process.
2. Gather Required Documents
   Collect all necessary documents, such as proof of relationship, identification, financial statements, and other evidence. Proper documentation is essential to avoid delays in processing.
3. Complete Application Forms
   Fill out the required application forms for both the sponsor and the sponsored person, which are available on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website. 
4. Submit the Application
   Submit the complete application package, including all forms, documents, and the processing fee, to IRCC. Double-check everything to ensure nothing is missing.
5. Wait for Processing
   After submission, IRCC will review your application. Processing times can vary widely, so be prepared for a waiting period that could extend several months.
6. Medical and Background Checks
   The sponsored spouse must undergo medical, criminal, and background checks as part of the assessment process. These checks are mandatory and can influence the application outcome.
7. Receive Decision
   If approved, your spouse will receive confirmation of permanent residence, allowing them to move to Canada. If further information is needed, IRCC will reach out to you for clarification.
8. Fulfill Sponsorship Obligations
   Once your spouse arrives in Canada, you must begin fulfilling your financial support obligations, which last for three years. This commitment is legally binding, regardless of any changes in your relationship status.

How to Apply 

1. Determine Eligibility
   Before starting, confirm that both you and your spouse meet the eligibility criteria. This includes verifying relationship status, financial stability, and other specific requirements.
2. Gather All Necessary Documents
   Collect all required documents, including proof of relationship, identification, financial records, and any additional evidence needed. Ensuring you have everything will prevent delays in the application process.
3. Fill Out Application Forms
   Complete the necessary application forms for both the sponsor and the sponsored person. These forms are available on the IRCC website and must be filled out accurately.
4. Pay the Application Fees
   Pay the required processing fees, which include the sponsorship fee, application fee, and right of permanent residence fee. Keep a receipt as proof of payment.
5. Submit Your Application
   Submit the completed application package, including all forms, documents, and proof of payment, to IRCC. Double-check to make sure nothing is missing before submission.
6. Wait for Acknowledgment
   After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment from IRCC confirming they have received your application. This is the beginning of the processing period.
7. Provide Additional Information if Requested
   If IRCC needs more information, they will contact you. Respond promptly to any requests to avoid delays in processing.
8. Receive Application Decision
   Once IRCC completes the review, you will receive a decision. If approved, your spouse will be issued confirmation of permanent residence.

Canada Spousal Sponsorship Processing Time

The processing time for Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship can vary depending on several factors, including whether the application is Inland or Outland. 

Generally, Inland applications, where the spouse is already in Canada, take about 12 months to process. 

Outland applications, where the spouse is outside Canada, also typically take around 12 months, but times can vary based on the country of residence and additional factors like the completeness of the application. 

During the processing period, IRCC may request additional information or documentation, which can extend the timeline. It’s important to regularly check the status of your application online and respond promptly to any requests from IRCC to avoid delays. 

While the typical timeframe is 12 months, processing times can fluctuate, so it’s advisable to be prepared for potential variations.

Note: Processing times in Quebec can take longer, up to 24 months, because Quebec has its own immigration system. After federal approval, applicants must obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which involves additional documentation and meeting provincial requirements. This extra step adds time to the overall process, making it longer than in other provinces.

Canada Spouse Visa Fees

When applying for a Canada Spouse Visa, it’s essential to understand the fees involved to ensure you are well-prepared.

Primary Fees

• Sponsorship Fee: 75 Canadian dollars.
• Principal Applicant Processing Fee: 570 Canadian dollars.
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: 515 Canadian dollars.

The total for these fees is 1,160 Canadian dollars, covering the core components of your application.

Additional Fees
If you include dependent children in your application, there is an additional fee of 150 Canadian dollars per child. Most applicants will also need to complete biometrics, which involves submitting fingerprints and a photograph:

• Biometrics Fee: 85 Canadian dollars per person or 170 Canadian dollars for a family.

Payment and Refunds
All fees must be paid in full before submitting your application. It is important to retain your payment receipts, as these may be required during the processing of your application. 

Please note that these fees are non-refundable, meaning that if your application is not approved, you will not receive a refund. 

To minimize the risk of any issues, it is crucial to ensure your application is complete and includes all necessary documents. This careful preparation can help facilitate a smoother application process and improve your chances of success.

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Spousal sponsorship applications can be rejected for several reasons, often due to oversights or misunderstandings. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help applicants avoid costly delays:

• Insufficient Proof of a Genuine Relationship: The application must demonstrate that the relationship is authentic and not solely for immigration purposes. Failure to provide compelling evidence, such as shared financial responsibilities, photographs, communication history, or testimonies, can lead to rejection.

• Incomplete or Incorrect Application Forms: Missing fields, incorrect information, or unsigned forms are frequent reasons for applications being returned or denied.

• Missing Supporting Documents: A lack of required documents, such as marriage certificates, proof of cohabitation, or identification papers, can result in application denial.

• Financial Ineligibility of the Sponsor: Sponsors must meet financial requirements to prove they can support their spouse. Sponsors who fail to demonstrate adequate financial stability or who are in default on previous sponsorships may face rejection.

• Inadmissibility Issues: Criminal records, medical issues, or misrepresentation in previous applications can make the sponsored spouse inadmissible to Canada.

Tips for Strengthening Your Application

A well-prepared application will greatly increase the chances of approval. Here are key tips to strengthen your spousal sponsorship application:

• Provide Comprehensive Relationship Evidence: Include a variety of evidence showing the history and authenticity of your relationship. Examples include joint leases, photos from various stages of the relationship, messages, emails, and proof of travel together.

• Demonstrate Financial Readiness: Submit bank statements, employment letters, and tax returns to show the sponsor’s ability to meet financial obligations.

• Be Honest and Transparent: Misrepresentation or withholding of certain information will lead to denial and even a ban from future applications.

• Organize Your Application: Use a clear and logical structure for your documents, with labeled sections. This will make it easier for immigration officers to review your application.

• Consult a Professional: If your case is complex, consider hiring an immigration lawyer to help you through the process of spousal sponsorship.

• Double-Check Before Submission: Please make sure that all your forms are completed and signed and that the application package includes all required documents and fees.

Post-Arrival Integration Support

Once the sponsored spouse arrives in Canada, integrating into a new environment can be exciting and challenging. Here are resources and strategies to ease the transition:

• Settlement Services: Many local organizations offer free settlement services, including language classes, employment support, and cultural orientation sessions.

• Healthcare Enrollment: Sponsored spouses should register for provincial or territorial health insurance to access medical services.

• Community Networks: Joining local community groups, especially those catering to newcomers, can help build social connections and provide valuable advice.

• Employment Assistance: Employment centers can assist with resume writing, job searches, and interview preparation to help the spouse enter the Canadian workforce.

• Understanding Rights and Responsibilities: Spouses must learn about their rights and obligations as permanent residents, including residency requirements to maintain their status.

• Mental Health Resources: Adjusting to life in a new country can be stressful. If needed, newcomers should seek support from mental health services.

Spousal Sponsorship for LGBTQ+ Couples

Canada is well-known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, including equal treatment in spousal sponsorship. However, LGBTQ+ couples may face unique challenges:

• Proving the Relationship: In countries where same-sex relationships are not legally recognized or socially accepted, gathering evidence of the relationship can be difficult. Providing affidavits from friends and family, photographs, and communication records can help substantiate the relationship.

• Cultural and Legal Barriers: LGBTQ+ couples may face discrimination or difficulty obtaining documents such as marriage certificates in their home country. Canada accepts alternative proofs in such cases, such as evidence of common-law partnership.

• Support Networks: LGBTQ+ newcomers can benefit from organizations like Rainbow Refugee and other groups dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ immigrants.

• Challenges with Disclosure: Some applicants may fear disclosing their sexual orientation in the application due to stigma. Working with a trusted advisor is important to ensure the application process is safe and thorough.

What Happens If the Sponsor Cannot Fulfill Their Obligations?

Sponsors have a legal responsibility to financially support their spouses for three years after they become permanent residents. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to serious consequences:

• Repayment of Social Assistance: The sponsor must repay the amount received if the sponsored spouse relies on social assistance during the sponsorship period.

• Impact on Future Sponsorships: A sponsor who fails to meet their obligations may be barred from sponsoring anyone else in the future.

• Legal Consequences: In extreme cases, sponsors may face lawsuits or wage garnishment to recover social assistance costs.

• Strategies for Sponsors in Difficulty: If a sponsor is struggling financially, they should seek help from community organizations or legal advisors to explore options and avoid breaching their agreement.

Maintaining Status During Inland Sponsorship

For spouses already in Canada on a temporary status, it is crucial to maintain their legal status throughout the inland sponsorship process. Losing status can complicate or delay the application.

Applicants can apply for a visitor record, work permit, or study permit extension to remain in Canada legally while their sponsorship application is being processed.

A key benefit of the inland sponsorship route is the ability to apply for an Open Work Permit alongside the sponsorship application. This allows the sponsored spouse to work while waiting for permanent residency, helping them contribute financially and gain Canadian work experience.

Maintaining communication with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and staying informed about application updates ensures a smooth process.

Spousal Sponsorship in Quebec: A Detailed Guide

Quebec has its own immigration system, adding unique steps to the spousal sponsorship process. After receiving federal approval, applicants must obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) from the provincial government. This involves submitting additional documents, such as proof of financial stability and declarations of intent to settle in Quebec.

Quebec’s sponsorship requirements include a commitment to financially support the sponsored spouse for three years, as in the federal process. However, sponsors may need to meet additional criteria specific to the province. Due to these extra requirements, processing times in Quebec are generally longer, often extending up to 24 months.

Sponsors and applicants must familiarize themselves with both federal and provincial processes to ensure their applications meet all guidelines. Seeking guidance from immigration consultants familiar with Quebec’s system can also be beneficial.

Common Reasons for Spousal Sponsorship Rejections

Understanding common reasons for refusals can help you avoid them. Here’s what you need to watch out for:

1. The Sponsor Doesn’t Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Not everyone qualifies to sponsor their spouse. You must be at least 18, a Canadian citizen, and not receiving social assistance (except for disabilities). You also can’t sponsor if you default on child support, immigration loans, or past sponsorship agreements. Before applying, make sure you meet all the criteria.

2. The Sponsored Partner Is Ineligible

Your spouse or partner must also meet certain requirements. They need to be legally married to you, in a common-law relationship or have lived with you for at least a year in a conjugal partnership. Past criminal convictions, medical issues, or misrepresentation on a previous visa can also make them inadmissible. Check these factors early to avoid complications.

3. Weak Proof of a Genuine Relationship

Immigration officers look for red flags that indicate a marriage of convenience. If your application lacks proof of a real relationship, it may be denied. You need to show a strong paper trail—wedding photos, joint bank accounts, text messages, travel history, and letters from family and friends can all help. The more evidence, the better.

4. Incomplete or Incorrect Applications

One of the most common reasons for refusal is missing information or errors in the forms. A single forgotten signature or an unanswered question can result in rejection. Double-check every document before submission. If needed, consider getting help from an immigration consultant or lawyer.

5. Financial Issues

Unlike some other sponsorship categories, spousal sponsorship doesn’t have a strict income requirement. However, you must show that you can financially support your spouse. If you’ve declared bankruptcy or are in significant debt, immigration officials may question your ability to provide for your partner. Be prepared to submit bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns as proof.

6. Not Declaring Family Members

If your spouse has dependent children, they must be listed in the application—even if they’re not immigrating with them. Failure to declare all family members could cause serious problems in the future, including being barred from sponsoring them later.

7. Residency Issues

If you’re a permanent resident, you must be living in Canada when applying. If you’re a Canadian citizen, you can apply from abroad, but you need to prove you’ll move back to Canada once your spouse is approved. Failing to meet these residency rules could lead to a rejection.

Impact of Criminal Record on Spousal Sponsorship Applications

A criminal record can complicate the spousal sponsorship process in Canada. Both the sponsor and the spouse being sponsored need to meet eligibility criteria, and past convictions can be a major obstacle. However, there are ways to address this issue. Here’s what you need to know.

How a Sponsor’s Criminal Record Can Affect Sponsorship

If you’re sponsoring your spouse and have a criminal record, your application may be rejected depending on the type of offense. 

Convictions related to violent crimes, sexual offenses, child abuse, or domestic violence are taken seriously by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You might not be allowed to sponsor your partner if you’ve been convicted of such offences.

That said, immigration officers will look at the details of your case, including how much time has passed since your conviction and whether you’ve demonstrated rehabilitation. If you’ve completed your sentence long ago and have stayed out of trouble, your chances of approval may be better.

What Happens If the Sponsored Spouse Has a Criminal Record?

If your spouse has a criminal record, they might be considered inadmissible to Canada. This can happen even if the conviction was outside Canada. Common offenses that can lead to a refusal include:

• Assault

• Theft

• Drug-related crimes

• DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

Being deemed inadmissible doesn’t mean your spouse has no options. Depending on the severity of the offense and how much time has passed since the sentence was completed, they might be able to apply for a Criminal Rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) to overcome the issue.

How to Overcome Criminal Inadmissibility

There are two main ways your spouse can address a past conviction:

1. Criminal Rehabilitation – If at least five years have passed since your spouse completed their sentence, they can apply for Criminal Rehabilitation. This is a one-time process that permanently clears their inadmissibility, allowing them to immigrate without issues.

2. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) – If not enough time has passed to qualify for Criminal Rehabilitation, your spouse may be able to apply for a TRP. This permit grants temporary entry into Canada and is issued at the discretion of immigration officials. TRPs are typically granted if there is a valid reason for the person to be in Canada, such as family reunification.

Be Honest About Criminal History

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is hiding a criminal record. Immigration authorities run background checks, so any undisclosed information can lead to misrepresentation, which can get the application rejected or even result in a ban from entering Canada. It’s always best to be upfront about any past convictions and explore available solutions.

How Life Changes (Divorce, Death, or Financial Hardship) Affect Sponsorship Commitments

Sponsoring a spouse for Canadian permanent residency is a long-term commitment; life can sometimes take unexpected turns. Divorce, the death of a spouse, or financial struggles can raise questions about your sponsorship responsibilities. Here’s what you need to know about how these situations impact your obligations.

What Happens If You Divorce?

Even if your marriage ends, your sponsorship responsibilities don’t disappear. When you sign the sponsorship agreement, you commit to financially supporting your spouse for three years from the date they receive permanent residency. This commitment remains in place even if you and your spouse separate or divorce.

If your ex-spouse applies for government assistance during this period, you will be required to repay any funds they receive. The government holds sponsors accountable for their commitments, and there’s no way to withdraw your sponsorship due to a breakup. Planning ahead and understanding this responsibility before applying is essential.

What If Your Sponsored Spouse Passes Away?

Losing a spouse is devastating, and while sponsorship commitments usually end in the event of their death, there are exceptions. If you also sponsor their dependent children, your financial responsibility for them continues. It’s important to notify Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as soon as possible so they can update their records.

Dealing with Financial Struggles During Sponsorship

Life circumstances change, and financial difficulties can happen to anyone. However, experiencing financial hardship—whether due to job loss, illness, or other challenges—doesn’t automatically relieve you of your sponsorship obligations. If your spouse needs government assistance while still under your sponsorship, you will be expected to repay those costs.

If you anticipate challenges, consider saving a financial cushion to ensure you can support them even in difficult times.

How Social Media Activity Can Influence Spousal Sponsorship Approval

Your online presence can impact your spousal sponsorship application more than you might think. Immigration officers sometimes review social media profiles to verify the details in an application. If they find contradictions, it could raise concerns and even lead to a refusal.

Keep Your Information Consistent

Make sure the details you share on social media align with the information in your application. If your profile says you’re single, but your application states you’re married, that inconsistency could cause problems. The same goes for job history, education, or any other personal details—everything should match to avoid unnecessary red flags.

Showing a Real Relationship

You don’t have to flood your social media with posts about your relationship, but having some online presence together can help. Photos, tagged posts, and interactions can support your case. However, if you and your partner prefer to keep things private, you’ll need strong alternative proof, such as photos, communication records, and letters from friends or family confirming your relationship.

Managing Privacy and Content

It’s smart to check your privacy settings. While you want to ensure your online presence supports your application, you should also control who can see your personal information. Review your profiles regularly and update any outdated details that could cause confusion. If something might be misinterpreted, consider adjusting or removing it.

The Risks of Inconsistencies

If immigration officers find false or conflicting information—whether intentional or not—it could lead to serious consequences. A refusal is possible, and in some cases, misrepresentation will result in a five-year ban from entering Canada. It’s always best to be honest and ensure everything you submit aligns with your online presence.

Best Practices

• Check Your Profiles – Make sure your social media details match what you’ve provided in your application.

• Share Wisely – If comfortable, consider posting about your relationship to provide additional credibility.

• Control Privacy – Use privacy settings to limit what others can see, but remember that public content is fair game for review.

• Stay Updated – Regularly review your profiles to ensure they reflect accurate, up-to-date information.

Interview Tips for Spousal Sponsorship Applicants

A spousal sponsorship interview is a critical step in the immigration process. Immigration officers use it to assess whether your relationship is real or if it’s just for immigration purposes. Being prepared can make a big difference in how smoothly things go.

Know What to Expect

The main goal of the interview is to confirm that your relationship is genuine. Officers will ask about how you met, your life as a couple, and your plans. They’re looking for consistency between what you say in the interview and what’s in your application. Any contradictions could raise doubts and potentially lead to a refusal.

Review Your Application

Before the interview, go through everything you submitted in your application. Refresh your memory on dates, places, and key events in your relationship. If you and your partner give conflicting answers, it could cause problems. You don’t need to memorize every detail, but you should be familiar enough to answer confidently.

Bring the Right Documents

Having strong evidence to back up your relationship helps strengthen your case. Bring original documents and copies, including:

• Marriage certificate – Proof that you’re legally married.

• Communication records – Text messages, emails, or call logs that show regular contact.

• Financial documents – Joint bank account statements, shared leases, or bills in both names.

• Photos together – A variety of pictures from different times, including with family and friends.

• Proof of living together – Rental agreements, utility bills, or anything showing you share a home.

Organizing these documents in order of events can help present a clear story of your relationship.

Prepare for Common Questions

Officers ask questions to verify details and ensure both of you provide similar answers. Some common topics include:

• How and when did you meet?

• The timeline of your relationship, including major events like engagements or trips together.

• Daily routines and how you share responsibilities.

• Information about each other’s families and close friends.

• Future plans, including living arrangements and discussions about children.

Going over these topics together beforehand can help you stay consistent. It’s normal to feel nervous, but preparation can help you stay calm and confident.

Be Honest and Stay Consistent

If you don’t remember something, don’t guess. It’s better to admit you’re unsure than to give an answer that contradicts what your partner says or what’s in your application. Immigration officers are trained to notice inconsistencies and even small discrepancies can raise red flags.

Make a Good Impression

Treat this like a formal interview. Dress appropriately and arrive on time. Being polite and composed can help set the right tone. If you’re anxious, take deep breaths and focus on answering honestly rather than trying to sound perfect.

Understand Possible Outcomes

Once the interview is over, you’ll face one of three possible outcomes:

• Approval – If everything checks out, your application moves forward without issues.

• Request for more information – If the officer needs additional proof, they may ask for more documents.

• Refusal – If the officer isn’t convinced the relationship is real, the application could be denied.

The Role of Proof of Relationship in Strengthening Your Application

When applying for spousal sponsorship, proving that your relationship is real is one of the most important parts of the process. Immigration officers need clear evidence that your marriage or partnership is based on a genuine commitment and not just for immigration benefits.

Official Marriage Certificate

Your marriage certificate is the starting point of your evidence. It confirms that your marriage is legally recognized. However, it isn’t enough on its own—immigration officers need more than just a legal document to verify the authenticity of your relationship. If your certificate is in a language other than English or French, make sure to provide a certified translation.

Photos That Show Your Journey Together

A collection of photos can help tell the story of your relationship. The key is to include a mix of pictures that reflect different aspects of your life as a couple. Label each photo with dates, locations, and short descriptions to add context.

• Wedding and Engagement Photos – Formal pictures from your wedding ceremony and any engagement celebrations.

• Casual Everyday Photos – Pictures of you spending time together, whether at home, traveling, or doing daily activities.

• Group Photos with Family and Friends – These help establish that your relationship is well-known and accepted by those close to you.

• Celebrations and Holidays – Photos from birthdays, holidays, and special occasions showing that you share important moments.

Communication Records

If you’ve spent time apart, showing ongoing communication is essential. The more varied and continuous your contact has been, the better. Select meaningful exchanges rather than just generic greetings.

• Text messages and chats – Screenshots or transcripts of conversations over time. Avoid excessive redactions.

• Emails and letters – Particularly useful if you have exchanged long-distance messages.

• Call logs and video chat history – Proof that you stay connected through phone or video calls, especially if you’ve lived in different countries.

• Social media interactions – Comments, tags, and posts can demonstrate the nature of your relationship over time.

Financial and Legal Ties

Having financial or legal commitments together shows that your relationship goes beyond words. These documents can help establish that you are in a shared life partnership.

• Joint bank accounts – Statements showing transactions from both partners.

• Shared bills and utilities – Electricity, internet, or phone bills with both names.

• Insurance policies – Health, life, or car insurance listing each other as beneficiaries or dependents.

• Lease agreements or mortgage documents – Proof that you live together or have co-owned property.

Travel Records and Visits

If you and your spouse have traveled together or visited each other while living apart, documentation of these trips can strengthen your case.

• Flight itineraries and boarding passes – Travel history showing shared trips.

• Hotel reservations – Confirmations that show you stayed together.

• Passport stamps and visas – Entries and exits from different countries corresponding with your travel history.

• Photos from trips – Candid shots from vacations, family visits, or special occasions.

Letters of Support from Friends and Family

Third-party accounts from people who know you both well can provide valuable support for your application. Ask close friends or family members to write letters that describe your relationship from their perspective.

• How they know you – Their relationship with you and how long they’ve known you.

• Observations of your relationship – Specific examples of time spent together and how they perceive your bond.

• Their contact details – Full name, address, and phone number in case immigration officials need to verify the letter.

These letters should be personal, honest, and notarized, if possible, to add credibility.

Proof of Living Together

Living together is a strong indicator of a committed relationship. If you and your spouse have shared a home, include documents that verify this arrangement.

• Rental agreements or mortgage papers – Both names are listed as tenants or owners.

• Shared utility bills – Electricity, water, or internet accounts with both names.

• Mail addressed to both partners – Government documents or bank statements sent to the same address.

• Photos of your home together – Everyday images showing you both living in the same space.

Personal Statements

Both you and your spouse should write personal statements explaining your relationship in your own words. These should be detailed and sincere, giving immigration officers a sense of your story.

• How you met – Describe where and how your relationship started.

• How your relationship developed – Key milestones, such as meeting family members, moving in together, or getting engaged.

• Challenges and how you overcame them – If you’ve faced long-distance periods or cultural differences, explain how you handled them.

• Future plans – Where you plan to live, what your career goals are, and what your family plans are, if applicable.

What to Do If Your Spousal Sponsorship Application Is Refused

A refusal on your spousal sponsorship application can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t mean the end of the road. You have options to challenge the decision or strengthen your case for a new application.

Review the Refusal Letter Carefully

The first thing you should do is go through the refusal letter sent by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The refusal letter will explain why your application was denied. Some common reasons include:

• Missing or incomplete documents – If you forgot to submit certain required forms or evidence.

• Lack of proof of a genuine relationship – If immigration officers weren’t convinced that your marriage or partnership is real.

• Inconsistencies in your application – If there were conflicting details between your forms, supporting documents, or interview answers.

Understanding exactly what went wrong will help you decide what to do next.

Decide Whether to Appeal or Reapply

Once you know why the application was refused, you have two main options: to appeal the decision or to submit a new application.

• Appeal the refusal – If your application was processed under the Outland Sponsorship stream, you may be able to challenge the decision by appealing to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD). You must file your appeal within 30 days of receiving your refusal letter. If the appeal is successful, the decision could be overturned.

• Reapply with a stronger application – If the refusal was due to missing evidence or minor issues, reapplying may be a better option. You don’t have to wait to submit a new application unless the refusal letter states otherwise.

If you’re unsure whether an appeal or reapplication is best, seeking professional advice can help.

Gather Stronger Evidence

If the issue was insufficient proof of your relationship, your new application needs to provide clearer, more convincing evidence. Consider adding:

• Personal statements – Both you and your spouse should write detailed letters explaining your relationship’s history, daily life together, and future plans.

• More photos – Include a wider variety of pictures from different times, locations, and events, especially with family and friends.

• Communication records – Provide additional call logs, text messages, emails, or video chat records that show regular contact over time.

• Financial and legal ties – Shared bank accounts, joint leases, utility bills, or insurance policies can help prove a committed relationship.

• Letters of support – Affidavits from family and friends who know you both and can vouch for your relationship’s authenticity.