Spousal Sponsorship

Spousal Sponsorship Requirements

Spousal sponsorship requirements are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure the legitimacy of relationships and promote family reunification. As a sponsor, you must meet the following requirements to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner for immigration to Canada:

1. Citizenship or Permanent Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada to sponsor your spouse.
2. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to be eligible as a sponsor.
3. Relationship Eligibility: You must prove that your relationship with your spouse or common-law partner is genuine and not solely for immigration purposes. IRCC requires evidence of shared responsibilities, commitment, and a mutual intent to build a life together. This can include documents such as marriage certificates, joint bank account statements, correspondence, photographs, and affidavits from family and friends.
4. Criminal and Immigration History: Sponsors must demonstrate good character and not be in default of any previous sponsorship undertakings or court-ordered support payments. Additionally, you must not have any criminal convictions or immigration-related issues that could affect your sponsorship eligibility.
5. Financial Obligations: Sponsors have a financial responsibility to support their spouse or partner. You must demonstrate the ability to provide for their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. As a sponsor, you will need to sign an undertaking agreement, committing to supporting your spouse financially for a specified period.

It’s important to note that spousal sponsorship requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. The application process can be complex, and it’s recommended to seek the assistance of an experienced immigration lawyer to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and provide sufficient supporting documentation.

Documenting the Relationship

Documenting the genuineness of your relationship is a crucial aspect of the spousal sponsorship process. Providing strong evidence of your relationship helps to establish its authenticity and increases the chances of a successful application. Here are some key documents and strategies to consider when documenting your relationship:

1. Marriage or Civil Union Certificate: If you are legally married or have entered into a civil union, include a copy of the marriage or civil union certificate.
2. Proof of Joint Residence: Provide documents that demonstrate that you and your spouse live together. This can include lease or rental agreements with both names, utility bills in both names, or joint ownership of property.
3. Correspondence and Communication: Include copies of letters, emails, or text messages exchanged between you and your spouse. These can show the ongoing nature of your relationship, discussions about future plans, and the depth of your emotional connection.
4. Financial Documents: Joint bank account statements, shared credit cards, or other financial documents that demonstrate financial interdependence can be valuable evidence. It’s also helpful to show contributions to shared expenses, such as rent, mortgage payments, or bills.
5. Photographs and Travel Records: Include photographs of you and your spouse together at various events, gatherings, or vacations. These visual representations can help establish the length and continuity of your relationship. Additionally, provide copies of travel documents, such as boarding passes or hotel reservations, that show joint travel.
6. Affidavits from Family and Friends: Statements from close family members and friends who can vouch for the authenticity of your relationship can be powerful supporting evidence. These affidavits should describe their knowledge of your relationship, how long they have known you as a couple, and their observations of your commitment to each other.
7. Social Media and Online Presence: If you and your spouse have a presence on social media platforms or other online platforms, consider including screenshots or printouts of interactions or posts that demonstrate your relationship.

Remember, it’s essential to provide a variety of evidence that spans different periods of your relationship to establish its genuine nature. Each case is unique, and additional documents may be required depending on your specific circumstances. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can ensure that you compile a comprehensive and persuasive documentation package to support your spousal sponsorship application.

Financial Obligations and Support

As a sponsor, you will have financial obligations to support your spouse or partner. Titan Law will guide you through the financial requirements, including:

• Demonstrating the ability to provide for your spouse’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing.
• Signing an undertaking agreement, committing to support your spouse financially for a specific period.
• Providing financial documents, such as employment letters, tax returns, and bank statements.

The Application Process

The spousal sponsorship application process involves several steps, and understanding each stage is crucial to ensure a successful application. Here is an overview of the spousal sponsorship application process:

• Eligibility Assessment: Before starting the application, it’s important to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria as a sponsor and if your spouse is eligible for sponsorship. Consulting with an immigration lawyer at Titan Law can help you assess your eligibility and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
• Prepare the Application Package: With the help of our experienced lawyers, you will gather the necessary documents and information to complete the application package. This includes forms, supporting documents, and any required fees.
• Submit the Application: Once your application package is complete, it should be submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) either online or through a paper submission, depending on the specific requirements.
• Application Processing: After the submission, your application will go through a processing period. During this time, IRCC will review your application, conduct background checks, and assess the genuineness of your relationship. Processing times can vary, and it’s advisable to stay updated on the current processing times.
• Medical and Security Checks: As part of the application process, both you and your spouse will be required to undergo medical examinations and security background checks. These checks ensure that you and your spouse meet health and security requirements for immigration to Canada.
• Sponsorship Interview: In some cases, IRCC may request an interview with both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse. Our knowledgeable lawyers at Titan Law will prepare you for the interview by providing guidance on the types of questions that may be asked and helping you present your case effectively.
• Decision on the Application: After reviewing all the information and documentation, IRCC will make a decision on your spousal sponsorship If approved, your spouse will receive a Canadian visa or permanent residency, depending on their eligibility. If refused, IRCC will provide reasons for the refusal.
• Refusal and Appeals Process: In the event of a refusal, our immigration lawyers can assist you with the appeals process. We will assess the reasons for refusal, determine the best course of action, and represent you during the appeals process to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

Processing Times and Waiting Periods

The processing times for spousal sponsorship applications can vary. Our experienced lawyers will keep you informed about the current processing times and guide you through the waiting period. We understand the importance of reuniting with your spouse as soon as possible, and we will work diligently to expedite the process.