Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
Canada has always been a top destination for immigrants worldwide, but when it comes to joining a spouse, marriage visa sponsorship in Canada is one of the most popular pathways for individuals looking to start a new chapter with their loved ones.
So, how exactly does this process work and what do you need to ensure a smooth and successful application? In this well researched, we’ll dive deep into the entire marriage visa sponsorship in Canada process, using real-life examples and sharing everything you need to know to get started.
What Is Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada?
Marriage visa sponsorship in Canada allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or partner to come to Canada as a permanent resident. This process is designed to keep families together, enabling individuals to reunite with their spouses and build a life in Canada, but like all immigration programs, there are specific criteria and steps to follow.
Let’s take Emma and John, for example. John is a Canadian citizen and Emma, his wife, lives in Brazil. They got married two years ago and now they want to live together in Canada.
Through marriage visa sponsorship in Canada, John can sponsor Emma to become a permanent resident, but this journey is not just about paperwork; it’s about proving that their marriage is genuine and that they meet all eligibility requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
To qualify for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada, both the sponsor and the applicant must meet certain conditions.
Here’s a breakdown of the basic requirements:
For the Sponsor:
- Age Requirement: The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
- Status in Canada: The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Financial Support: The sponsor must prove they can financially support their spouse or partner for a minimum of three years after they arrive in Canada. This means they need to ensure the sponsored spouse does not rely on social assistance during this time.
- No Criminal Record: The sponsor must not have a history of certain crimes, especially related to violence against family members.
For the Sponsored Spouse:
- Genuine Marriage: The marriage must be legally recognized and the couple must prove that their relationship is genuine.
For instance, if Emma and John had only met a few weeks before getting married, their relationship might raise red flags. - Health and Security: The sponsored spouse must pass a medical exam and provide a police clearance certificate.
This ensures they are not a health or security risk to Canadians.
Types of Relationships Eligible for Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
It’s not just married couples who can apply for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada.
There are three types of relationships that qualify:
- Spouse: A legally married partner.
- Common-law Partner: A person you’ve been living with in a conjugal relationship for at least one year.
- Conjugal Partner: A partner with whom you have a committed relationship for at least a year but haven’t lived together due to extenuating circumstances, such as immigration barriers.
Let’s go back to John and Emma. If, instead of getting married, they had lived together in Brazil for over a year, they could apply as common-law partners.
Steps to Apply for Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
The application process for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada can seem complex, but by breaking it down into steps, it becomes much more manageable.
Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
Before anything else, make sure both you and your spouse meet the eligibility requirements. Gather all necessary documents, including proof of your relationship.
This can be photographs, joint bank accounts or communication records, showing the length and seriousness of your relationship.
Step 2: Choose the Right Application Type
There are two main types of sponsorship applications:
- Outland Sponsorship: For couples where the sponsored spouse is living outside Canada during the application process.
- Inland Sponsorship: For couples already living together in Canada, with the sponsored spouse on a temporary visa.
Each type has its advantages. For instance, outland sponsorship might allow the sponsored spouse to travel more freely while the application is processed, while inland sponsorship gives the applicant the ability to apply for an open work permit.
Step 3: Complete the Application
This step involves filling out the forms accurately and providing all the required documents. Any mistakes or missing information could lead to delays or rejections.
One pro tip: Ensure that your relationship proof is thorough and well-organized.
In Emma and John’s case, they included letters from family members, travel itineraries and their wedding photos.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
The fees for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada include the application processing fee, the right of permanent residence fee and biometrics fees (if applicable).
Make sure you have a proper payment plan ready, as fees can vary depending on your specific case.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Once everything is ready, submit your application either online or via mail. At this point, it’s a waiting game, but regular updates will be provided through your online account or email.
Step 6: Await Decision and Follow Up
The processing time for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada can range from 12 to 24 months, depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case and where the application is being processed. If additional information is requested, provide it promptly to avoid any unnecessary delays.
Successfully Navigating Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
To illustrate the process, let’s look at the story of Sam and Aisha.
Sam, a Canadian citizen, met Aisha while working abroad. After a long-distance relationship, they decided to get married and apply for marriage visa sponsorship in Canada. Their case was straightforward because they provided plenty of proof of their relationship, including photos, messages and joint trips, however, the couple encountered a hiccup when Sam forgot to include his tax returns to prove financial stability.
This oversight delayed their application by a few months.
The takeaway here? Be thorough and double-check all documents before submitting your application.
Challenges and Common Mistakes in Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
Despite the process being clear, many couples face challenges during their application.
Here are some common mistakes:
- Insufficient Proof of Relationship: Failing to provide enough evidence can lead to doubts about the genuineness of the marriage.
- Incorrect Forms or Missing Documents: Even a minor mistake can result in a returned application.
- Lack of Financial Stability: Not being able to prove that you can support your spouse can result in rejection.
But don’t worry! These challenges can be avoided with careful planning and attention to detail.
Benefits of Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
So, why go through all this effort? What makes marriage visa sponsorship in Canada worth it?
- Permanent Residency: Your spouse will become a permanent resident of Canada, with all the associated rights and benefits.
- Healthcare Access: Permanent residents have access to Canada’s world-class healthcare system.
- Work and Study: Once granted permanent residency, your spouse can work or study in Canada without restrictions.
- Path to Citizenship: After a few years of residency, your spouse can apply for Canadian citizenship.
For many couples, these benefits are a game-changer. Take Maria and Andre, for example. After navigating the sponsorship process andre was able to not only join Maria in Canada but also pursue a career in engineering—a dream made possible through his new status.
FAQs About Marriage Visa Sponsorship in Canada
1. How long does the marriage visa sponsorship process take in Canada?
The processing time can vary, but it usually takes between 12 to 24 months.
2. Can I work in Canada while my sponsorship application is being processed?
If you apply through the inland sponsorship stream, you may be eligible for an open work permit while your application is being processed.
3. Can I sponsor my spouse if I am not financially stable?
You must prove that you can support your spouse financially. However, there are no minimum income requirements for spousal sponsorship.
4. What happens if my marriage visa sponsorship application is denied?
If your application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision or reapply, ensuring that you address any issues that led to the denial.
5. Can I travel while my spouse’s sponsorship application is in process?
Yes, but you must be cautious if you are applying through the inland sponsorship route, as leaving Canada could impact your application.