A Complete Guide to Getting a Canada Marriage Visa

A Canada marriage visa typically refers to the spousal sponsorship program, which allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their foreign spouse or partner for permanent residency in Canada.

Whether you married your partner abroad or in Canada, this program helps couples live and build a future together in Canada legally and permanently.

Who Can Apply for a Canada Marriage Visa?

There are two people involved in the application:

1. Sponsor – A Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

2. Applicant – The foreign spouse or common-law partner.

Eligibility Requirements

For the Sponsor:

• Must be 18 years or older.

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

• Must live in Canada, or plan to return once your spouse gets PR.

• Must not be receiving social assistance, except for disability.

• Must be able to financially support your spouse for 3 years.

• Must not have:

  • Sponsored another spouse within the last 5 years.

  • Failed to support a previous sponsorship financially.

  • Certain criminal convictions.

For the Applicant (Spouse):

• Must be 18 years or older.

• Must not be inadmissible to Canada (e.g., criminal history, medical issues).

• Must prove genuine relationship.

Types of Relationships Allowed

Canada recognizes 3 types of relationships under spousal sponsorship:

Required Documents for Canada Marriage Visa

Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship: What’s the Difference?

1. Inland Sponsorship

• Spouse is already in Canada (e.g., visitor, worker, student).

• Can apply for an Open Work Permit while waiting.

• Must remain in Canada during the process.

2. Outland Sponsorship

• Spouse is living outside Canada.

• Usually faster processing.

• Can still visit Canada during processing (if visa is granted).

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canada Marriage Visa

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure both sponsor and applicant meet the eligibility requirements. If you’re unsure, consult with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

This includes all the forms, proof of relationship, IDs, police checks, medical exams, and photos.

Organize everything clearly to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 3: Fill Out the Required Forms

Key forms include:

• IMM 1344 – Application to sponsor

• IMM 5532 – Relationship questionnaire

• IMM 5406 – Additional family information

• IMM 5669 – Background declaration

• IMM 0008 – Generic application for permanent residence

Step 4: Pay the Fees Online

Current (2025) government fees:

Step 5: Submit the Application

You can apply online through the IRCC portal (recommended in 2025) or via paper-based application.

Double-check:

• All forms are signed

• Translations are certified (if needed)

• Documents are complete

Step 6: Wait for Acknowledgement & Updates

You will receive:

• Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)

• Biometrics request

• Medical exam request

• Possibly an interview, depending on your case

Processing Time for Canada Marriage Visa (2025)

Average processing time: 10 to 13 months (as per IRCC updates)

Factors that affect speed:

• Completeness of documents

• Type of sponsorship (inland vs. outland)

• Applicant’s home country

• Security or medical issues

Tips to Prove Your Relationship is Real

To avoid rejection, you must convince IRCC that your marriage is not fake.

Provide:

• Wedding photos

• Travel history together

• Joint financial accounts

• Emails, chat logs, video calls

• Affidavits from friends or family

• Evidence of communication and support

Common Reasons for Marriage Visa Rejection

After Approval – What Happens Next?

If approved:

• The applicant receives Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

• They must land in Canada to activate PR.

• Inland applicants get their PR card by mail.

• Outland applicants receive a visa in their passport to travel to Canada.

Additional Information

Can I Work While My Application Is in Progress?

If you’re applying from within Canada, you can request an Open Work Permit with your sponsorship application.

Can I Travel During Processing?

• Outland applicants: Yes, but avoid long absences.

• Inland applicants: Risky—leaving may void your inland application.

Important Links

• IRCC Spousal Sponsorship Page

• Apply Online via IRCC Portal

• List of Immigration Consultants

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can same-sex couples apply?

A: Yes. Canada fully recognizes same-sex marriages and partnerships.

Q: How soon can I apply after getting married?

A: Immediately, as long as you have proof of marriage and other required documents.

Q: Can I sponsor my spouse if I live abroad?

A: Only if you’re a Canadian citizen. Permanent residents must live in Canada to sponsor.

Q: Can my spouse bring their children?

A: Yes, dependent children under 22 can be included in the application.

Conclusion

Getting a Canada marriage visa can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can reunite and build a life together in Canada. Be honest, organized, and thorough—and don’t hesitate to get professional help if you need it.