Documents needed for Marriage Visa to Canada

Canada offers family reunification programs that allow citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses for immigration. One of the pathways available is the marriage visa, a type of spousal sponsorship visa. This guide explains the necessary documents, processes, and other important considerations when applying for a marriage visa to Canada.

Understanding the Marriage Visa for Canada

A marriage visa to Canada falls under the Family Class Immigration Program. The program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their legally married spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners.

This visa category is an integral part of Canada’s commitment to family reunification.

Key Features

1. Eligibility for Sponsorship: The sponsor must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and meet specific financial requirements.

2. Types of Sponsorship:

Inland Sponsorship: For spouses already in Canada. Applicants can apply for an Open Work Permit.

Outland Sponsorship: For spouses living outside Canada. Processing is done through the applicant’s home country visa office.

Documents Needed for Marriage Visa to Canada

The document checklist is essential for a successful application. Below are the key documents categorized into sections for the sponsor and the sponsored spouse.

1. Documents Required from the Sponsor

Proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Residency:

Examples include a Canadian passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.

Financial Proof:

Evidence showing the sponsor can financially support the spouse. This can include pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns (e.g., Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency).

Proof of Relationship:

Photos of the couple together.

Letters, emails, or other communications.

Joint financial accounts or lease agreements.

Undertaking Form (IMM 1344):

The sponsor agrees to financially support the spouse for at least three years.

2. Documents Required from the Sponsored Spouse

Passport or Travel Document:

Must be valid for the duration of the application process.

Marriage Certificate:

Official documentation proving the marriage. For marriages outside Canada, the certificate must be issued by the country where the marriage occurred.

Identity Documents:

A government-issued ID, such as a national ID card or driver’s license.

Police Clearance Certificate:

Required from every country where the applicant has lived for six months or more since turning 18.

Medical Examination Report:

Proof of undergoing a medical exam by an approved panel physician.

Photos:

Passport-sized photos adhering to Canadian immigration specifications.

3. Joint Documents for Both Parties

Proof of Genuine Relationship:

This includes shared bank accounts, property ownership, joint travel itineraries, or affidavits from family and friends attesting to the relationship’s authenticity.

Immigration Forms:

Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking (IMM 1344).

Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008).

Additional Family Information Form (IMM 5406).

Steps to Apply for a Marriage Visa to Canada

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

• Both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse must meet eligibility requirements.
• The sponsor should not have declared bankruptcy or have criminal convictions.
• The spouse must have a genuine and subsisting relationship with the sponsor.

Step 2: Complete the Application Package

Download the application package from the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Ensure all required forms are accurately filled out.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Compile the document checklist provided by IRCC. Ensure all translations (if applicable) are certified.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

Fees include:

• Sponsorship application fee: CAD 75.
• Principal applicant processing fee: CAD 490.
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 515.

Additional fees may apply for biometrics and medical exams.

Step 5: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted online or via mail, depending on the sponsorship type.

Step 6: Complete Biometrics and Medical Exam

The sponsored spouse will receive instructions to complete biometrics and undergo a medical exam.

Step 7: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary. Inland applications may take up to 12 months, while Outland applications depend on the visa office.

Step 8: Decision and Next Steps

If approved, the sponsored spouse will receive permanent resident status. If rejected, you may appeal the decision.

SEE ALSO:

Eligibility for Spouse Sponsorship to Canada

How to renew Spousal Visa to Canada

How much do Spousal Immigration Lawyers charge in Canada

Common Reasons for Application Rejections

1. Insufficient Proof of Relationship: Lack of evidence showing a genuine marriage.

2. Missing Documents: Failure to submit all required documents.

3. Financial Ineligibility: The sponsor does not meet financial requirements.

4. Criminal or Security Concerns: Issues arising from police clearance or background checks.

5. Incomplete Forms: Errors or omissions in the application package.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Double-Check the Document Checklist: Ensure all required documents are submitted.

2. Provide Strong Proof of Relationship: Include multiple types of evidence to support the genuineness of your relationship.

3. Follow IRCC Guidelines: Adhere to photo specifications and document requirements.

4. Respond Promptly to IRCC Requests: Submit additional documents or attend interviews on time.

FAQs about Marriage Visa to Canada

What is the processing time for a marriage visa to Canada?

Processing times depend on whether the application is Inland or Outland. Inland applications typically take 12 months, while Outland applications vary based on the country of residence.

Can I work in Canada while my application is being processed?

If you apply through Inland Sponsorship, you may be eligible for an Open Work Permit, allowing you to work during the processing period.

What happens if my application is refused?

You can appeal the decision through the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if you believe the refusal was incorrect.

Are there income requirements for sponsors?

There is no minimum income requirement for sponsoring a spouse, but sponsors must prove they can financially support the sponsored individual.

Can a same-sex spouse apply for a marriage visa?

Yes, Canada recognizes same-sex marriages for immigration purposes.

Is a fiancé visa the same as a marriage visa?

No, Canada does not have a fiancé visa program. A marriage visa requires the couple to be legally married.

Do I need to translate non-English documents?

Yes, all non-English or non-French documents must be accompanied by certified translations.

Can I include my children in the application?

Yes, dependent children can be included as accompanying dependents in the application.

What is the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)?

The RPRF is a fee paid by the sponsored spouse when granted permanent resident status.

How do I prove my marriage is genuine?

Submit photos, travel documents, joint bank statements, and affidavits from family and friends attesting to the authenticity of your relationship.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for a marriage visa?

No, hiring a lawyer or consultant is optional. You can complete the application on your own using the IRCC guidelines. However, professional advice can be beneficial for complex cases or if the application is rejected.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I am living outside Canada?

Yes, Canadian citizens living abroad can sponsor their spouse, but they must show intent to return to Canada once the application is approved. Permanent residents, however, must reside in Canada during the sponsorship process.

What happens if my marriage certificate is not in English or French?

You must provide a certified translation of the certificate along with a copy of the original document. Ensure the translation is completed by a certified translator.

Can my spouse visit Canada while the application is in progress?

Yes, your spouse can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada. However, approval is not guaranteed, as the visa officer must be satisfied that the spouse will leave Canada after their temporary stay.

How do I pay the application fees?

Fees can be paid online through the IRCC payment portal using a credit or debit card. Keep the receipt as proof of payment and include it with your application.

What happens if I get divorced during the application process?

If the marriage ends during the processing period, the application will be canceled, as the sponsorship is based on the marital relationship.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I am unemployed?

Yes, there is no minimum income requirement to sponsor a spouse. However, you must prove that you are not on social assistance and can financially support your spouse.

Wrapping Up

Applying for a marriage visa to Canada can be a life-changing process, allowing couples to live together and build their future in Canada. While the application process requires attention to detail and extensive documentation, proper preparation increases the chances of success.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, gathering all required documents, and ensuring the relationship is well-documented, applicants can navigate the process more smoothly. For personalized advice, consulting with an immigration consultant or lawyer is recommended.

With its family-friendly policies, Canada remains a top destination for couples seeking reunification.