The documents needed for spousal sponsorship depend on your relationship, immigration history, country-specific instructions and the application package generated for your case. Use this quick-reference overview to prepare, but always follow the current Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) checklist and instructions that apply to you.
Start With the Current IRCC Document Checklist
The controlling sources are the current IMM 5533 document checklist, the application package generated for the sponsor and applicant, and any country-specific instructions. Forms and requirements may change. Review the current IRCC application instructions before submitting both the sponsorship and permanent residence applications online.
Sponsor Forms and Eligibility Documents
The sponsor generally needs to provide the forms listed in the current application package and documents confirming Canadian immigration law status or permanent resident status. Depending on the sponsor’s circumstances, the package may also request identity records, proof of residence in Canada or plans to return to Canada, and information about previous sponsorships.
Spousal sponsorship generally does not have a universal minimum-income threshold. However, the sponsor must remain eligible and sign an undertaking to provide the sponsored person with basic needs for the required period. Follow the current checklist for any financial records requested in your case.
Applicant Identity and Civil-Status Documents
- Passport or travel-document biographical pages requested by IRCC
- Birth certificate and other identity records, where applicable
- Marriage certificate or documents supporting common-law or conjugal-partner status
- Divorce, annulment or death certificates relating to previous relationships, where applicable
- Legal name-change documents if names differ across the application
- Documents for accompanying and non-accompanying dependants, as required
Proof of Marriage or Partnership
Married applicants generally provide a valid marriage certificate. Common-law partners may need evidence showing that they have lived together in a marriage-like relationship for the required period. Conjugal-partner applications have distinct requirements and should be prepared according to the current IRCC instructions.
Proof of a Genuine and Continuing Relationship
IRCC assesses whether the relationship is genuine and was not entered into primarily for immigration purposes. Relevant evidence may include selected photographs, communication records, travel records, proof of visits, joint leases or bills, shared financial records, insurance or beneficiary records, and statements from family or friends. Choose clear evidence that reflects the history and continuing nature of the relationship, and follow any limits in the checklist.
Police Certificates, Medical Exams and Biometrics
Police-certificate requirements are country- and case-specific. Follow the generated checklist and country-specific instructions for which certificates to obtain and when to submit them. If a required certificate is unavailable, provide the explanation and supporting evidence requested by IRCC.
Applicants should follow IRCC instructions about the immigration medical exam rather than assuming an upfront exam is required in every case. Biometrics may also be required, depending on the applicant’s circumstances and current IRCC rules.
Fees, Photos, Translations and Additional Records
- Pay the applicable fees and keep the payment receipt.
- Provide photographs that meet the current specifications.
- Include complete translations and any supporting translator documents required by IRCC for records not in English or French.
- Provide additional records requested for dependants, previous applications, military service, name changes or other case-specific issues.
For a more detailed preparation resource, review our detailed spousal sponsorship document checklist. IRCC’s complete application guide also explains the process and current requirements. For sponsors or applicants who may have obtained their status by descent, our Canadian citizenship by descent page provides relevant information.
Final Spousal Sponsorship Document Check
- Confirm that names, dates and relationship details are consistent across forms and documents.
- Complete every required signature or electronic signature according to IRCC instructions.
- Include required translations and translator documents.
- Explain unavailable checklist items and include supporting evidence where applicable.
- Keep a complete copy of the submitted application and supporting records.
Get Help Reviewing Your Spousal Sponsorship Documents
A missing or inconsistent document can create questions during processing. Because the correct package depends on the facts of each case, consider having a licensed professional review your forms and supporting records before submission. Contact Nanua & Ioffe Lawyers to discuss your spousal sponsorship application.
