In Canada, family reunification is a fundamental aspect of immigration. When individuals seek to bring their spouse or partner to Canada through family class sponsorship, it is imperative for Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure the relationship’s authenticity. In this blog, we will know why authenticity of relationship is necessary for Canadian spousal sponsorship.
Why Verification Matters:
IRCC conducts these assessments because, in some cases, foreign nationals may attempt to establish fraudulent relationships with Canadian citizens or permanent residents to gain Canadian permanent resident status. For sponsors, this can be emotionally and financially challenging, as they commit to financially supporting their partner for three years, even if the relationship ends.
Additionally, Canadians or permanent residents may engage in sham relationships with foreign nationals in exchange for financial gain.
How to Establish a Genuine Relationship:
To prove the authenticity of a relationship, specific documents must be included in the spousal or partner sponsorship application. If required, an immigration officer may request an in-person interview with both the sponsor and applicant.
Documentation for Married Couples:
For married couples, documentation includes:
- A completed Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation questionnaire (IMM 5532)
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of marriage registration with a government authority
- Proof of divorce if applicable
- Long-form birth certificates or adoption records if there are common children
- Wedding invitations and photos
Common-Law Relationships:
Common-law relationships in Canada require documentation similar to married couples (excluding wedding photos and invitations) as well as:
- Evidence of financial support or shared expenses
- Proof of relationship recognition by friends and family
- Joint ownership of residential property or rental agreements
- Joint utility accounts, credit card accounts, or bank accounts
- Vehicle insurance listing both parties
- Government-issued documents with matching addresses
If unable to provide two of these documents, couples must provide a detailed written explanation.
Proving Cohabitation:
Couples living together in Canada can prove their conjugal partnership with:
- Joint bank accounts or credit cards
- Joint property ownership or residential leases
- Joint rental receipts or utility accounts
- Shared household expenses
- Evidence of joint purchases and correspondence
- Identification documents with matching addresses
- Shared responsibility for household chores and management
- Records of telephone calls
If not living together in Canada, evidence of previous one-year cohabitation should include documented contact and visits by the Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Demonstrating the authenticity of relationships in spousal sponsorship applications is crucial for the integrity of Canadian immigration. By providing the required documentation, couples can navigate this process effectively, ensuring genuine reunification with their loved ones in Canada.
