5 Ways to Get a Canada Visa by Marriage

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If you’re married to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for a Canada visa through the Spousal Sponsorship Program. This pathway allows you to reunite with your spouse and build a life together in Canada. However, the process can be complex, and understanding the various options available is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore five primary avenues to obtain a Canada visa by marriage, detailing the requirements, processes, and considerations for each.​

1. Spousal Sponsorship (Outland)

The Outland Spousal Sponsorship is designed for couples who are living outside Canada. This process allows the sponsored spouse to apply for permanent residence from their home country or a third country.​

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

  • Both partners must be at least 18 years old.

  • The marriage must be legally recognized in both the country where it took place and in Canada.

  • There should be no legal impediments to the marriage.​

Process Overview:

  1. Application Submission: The sponsor submits the application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

  2. Processing: IRCC processes the application, which may take several months.

  3. Decision: If approved, the sponsored spouse receives permanent resident status.​

Key Considerations:

  • Processing times can vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months.

  • The sponsored spouse may need to attend an interview.

  • It’s essential to provide comprehensive documentation to avoid delays.​

2. Spousal Sponsorship (Inland)

The Inland Spousal Sponsorship is for couples where the sponsored spouse is already in Canada on a valid status, such as a visitor, student, or worker.​

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

  • Both partners must be at least 18 years old.

  • The marriage must be legally recognized in both the country where it took place and in Canada.

  • The sponsored spouse must be in Canada with valid status.​

Process Overview:

  1. Application Submission: The sponsor submits the application to IRCC.

  2. Work Permit Application: The sponsored spouse can apply for an open work permit while the application is being processed.

  3. Processing: IRCC processes the application, which may take several months.

  4. Decision: If approved, the sponsored spouse receives permanent resident status.​

Key Considerations:

  • Processing times can vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months.

  • The sponsored spouse can work while the application is being processed.

  • It’s essential to maintain valid status in Canada throughout the process.​

3. Conjugal Partner Sponsorship

This option is for couples who have been in a committed relationship for at least one year but are unable to live together or get married due to legal or immigration reasons.​

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

  • Both partners must be at least 18 years old.

  • The relationship must be genuine and have lasted for at least one year.

  • There must be significant obstacles preventing the couple from living together or getting married.​

Process Overview:

  1. Application Submission: The sponsor submits the application to IRCC.

  2. Processing: IRCC processes the application, which may take several months.

  3. Decision: If approved, the sponsored partner receives permanent resident status.​

Key Considerations:

  • Processing times can vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months.

  • It’s crucial to provide evidence of the genuine nature of the relationship.

  • The couple must demonstrate the reasons for not living together or marrying.​

4. Quebec-Specific Spousal Sponsorship

If you and your spouse plan to reside in the province of Quebec, you must follow the province’s specific sponsorship process.​

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident residing in Quebec.

  • Both partners must be at least 18 years old.

  • The marriage must be legally recognized in both the country where it took place and in Canada.

  • The couple must intend to reside in Quebec.

Process Overview:

  1. Application Submission: The sponsor submits the application to both IRCC and the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI).

  2. Processing: IRCC and MIFI process the application.

  3. Decision: If approved, the sponsored spouse receives permanent resident status.​

Key Considerations:

  • Processing times can vary but may be longer than other provinces.

  • The couple must meet Quebec’s specific requirements, including financial criteria.

  • It’s essential to provide comprehensive documentation to both IRCC and MIFI.​

5. Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for Spouses

If your spouse is not eligible for permanent residence immediately, they may apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada.​

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The applicant must intend to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.

  • The applicant must have sufficient funds for their stay.

  • The applicant must not have a criminal record or pose a security risk.​

Process Overview:

  1. Application Submission: The applicant submits the TR

    1. V (Temporary Resident Visa) application online or through a visa application center.

    2. Biometrics and Documentation: The applicant may be required to give biometrics and provide proof of ties to their home country (e.g., employment, assets, or family).

    3. Assessment by IRCC: Immigration officers will assess the genuineness of the visit and whether the applicant intends to leave after their stay.

    4. Decision: If approved, the spouse will receive a TRV allowing them to enter Canada for a temporary period, usually up to six months.

    Key Considerations:

    • A TRV does not lead directly to permanent residence but allows couples to be together while preparing for spousal sponsorship.

    • It’s essential to demonstrate strong reasons for the visit and ties to the home country to avoid suspicion of dual intent (visiting with the hidden aim to stay permanently).

    • Being in Canada on a TRV does not guarantee the success of an inland sponsorship application, but it can facilitate it.

    Important Tips for a Successful Spousal Visa Application

    1. Provide Strong Relationship Evidence

    Immigration officials closely examine the genuineness of a relationship to prevent marriage fraud. Include:

    • Wedding photos and invitations

    • Travel itineraries and joint trips

    • Chat logs, emails, and call history

    • Joint leases, bank accounts, or utility bills

    • Letters from friends and family vouching for your relationship

    2. Avoid Common Pitfalls

    • Incomplete application forms

    • Missing fees or documents

    • Failing to respond promptly to IRCC requests

    • Providing contradictory or inconsistent information

    3. Get Legal Help If Needed

    If you’re unsure about your eligibility or how to present your application, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or an immigration lawyer. Mistakes can lead to delays, rejections, or even bans.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

    Yes, if you apply through the inland spousal sponsorship stream, you may be eligible for an open work permit while waiting for a decision.

    What happens if my marriage ends during the sponsorship process?

    If the marriage breaks down before permanent residence is granted, the application will likely be denied. If the marriage ends after the visa is granted, the sponsor may still be financially responsible for the spouse for up to 3 years.

    Is there an interview in the spousal sponsorship process?

    Sometimes. If the immigration officer has doubts about the legitimacy of the marriage, they may require an interview with both partners.