How a Foreigner Can Marry and Live in Canada

Canada is not only a beautiful and welcoming country—it also provides clear and legal pathways for foreigners to marry Canadian citizens or permanent residents and live together permanently.

Whether you met your partner online, during travel, or while they visited your country, this 2025 guide explains everything a foreigner needs to marry and live in Canada legally and successfully.

Can a Foreigner Get Married in Canada?

Yes, absolutely! Canada allows foreigners to marry Canadians, as well as other foreigners, provided both parties meet the legal marriage requirements.

Legal Requirements to Marry in Canada:

• Be at least 18 years old (or age of majority in the province)

• Provide valid identification documents (passport, birth certificate)

• Not be currently married to someone else (must be divorced or widowed)

• Provide proof of single status if required (e.g., affidavit)

• Get a Marriage Licence in the province where the marriage will take place

• No requirement to be a Canadian citizen or resident

Note: A tourist visa is enough to get legally married in Canada.

Step-by-Step Guide to Get Married in Canada as a Foreigner

Step 1: Enter Canada Legally

Come to Canada on a visitor visa, ETA, or other legal entry. You do not need permanent residency or citizenship to get married.

Step 2: Choose a Province

Each province in Canada has its own marriage laws, licensing process, and application requirements. The most common provinces for foreign marriages are:

• Ontario

• British Columbia

• Alberta

• Quebec

Step 3: Apply for a Marriage Licence

Visit a Marriage Licence Office with your partner. Bring:

• Original passport or government-issued ID

• Divorce or death certificate (if previously married)

• Translation of any foreign documents (if needed)

• Application form (varies by province)

Cost: Usually between $75 to $150 CAD

Step 4: Hold the Marriage Ceremony

You can marry via:

• A civil ceremony (at city hall, courthouse, or municipal office)

• A religious ceremony (by a registered clergy or officiant)

After the ceremony, the Marriage Certificate is issued.

Can You Stay in Canada After Marrying a Canadian?

Yes, but marriage alone doesn’t automatically give you legal residency. You must apply for Spousal Sponsorship through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Spousal Sponsorship: How to Live in Canada After Marriage

The Canadian government allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner to live and work in Canada.

There are two main options:

1. Inland Sponsorship

• You’re already in Canada (e.g., on a visitor visa)

• You apply for PR from within Canada

• You may apply for an Open Work Permit while waiting

2. Outland Sponsorship

• You’re outside of Canada

• Application is processed through your home country visa office

• You can still visit Canada during the process (if permitted)

Who Is Eligible to Sponsor?

To sponsor a foreign spouse, the Canadian partner must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a Canadian citizen or PR

• Live in Canada (or plan to return)

• Not be receiving social assistance (excluding disability)

• Be financially stable

Requirements for the Sponsored Spouse (Foreigner)

The foreign spouse must:

• Pass medical exam

• Provide police clearance from any country lived in for 6+ months

• Provide biometrics

• Submit identity documents (passport, marriage certificate, photos)

• Prove the marriage is genuine

What Documents Are Needed for Spousal Sponsorship?

How Much Does It Cost?

Total: ~$1,175 CAD
(Add $1,050 more for dependent children)

How Long Does It Take?

• Inland Sponsorship: 12–18 months

• Outland Sponsorship: 8–12 months

• Work permits (inland): 4–6 months

Tip: Apply early and submit complete documents to avoid delays.

Tips to Prove Your Marriage Is Genuine

IRCC closely checks for marriage fraud. To prove a real relationship, include:

• Photos together (travel, events, wedding)

• Chat logs or call history

• Joint bank accounts

• Travel tickets or itineraries

• Lease agreements or utility bills (shared address)

• Letters from family or friends

After Sponsorship: What Happens Next?

Once approved:

• You’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

• You must land in Canada or update your inland status

• You can then get your PR card, healthcare, and work rights

What If the Marriage Ends?

The sponsor is financially responsible for the spouse for 3 years after PR approval—even if the relationship ends.

Spouse cannot sponsor another partner for at least 5 years after becoming a PR through sponsorship.

Can You Marry in Canada on a Tourist Visa?

Yes! Foreigners on a tourist visa can marry in Canada legally. However, they must leave or apply for a different visa to stay long-term.

What About Marrying Outside Canada?

You can marry abroad and still apply for outland spousal sponsorship. Ensure your foreign marriage is:

• Legally valid in the country it was held

• Recognized by Canadian law

• Properly documented (certificate + translation if needed)

Common FAQs About Foreigners Marrying in Canada

Q: Can I work in Canada after marrying a Canadian?

A: Yes, through an Open Work Permit under inland sponsorship or after PR approval.

Q: Do I need IELTS for spousal sponsorship?

A: No. Language testing is not required for family sponsorship.

Q: Is there an interview?

A: Sometimes. If IRCC doubts the authenticity of your relationship.

Q: Can same-sex couples marry and apply?

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

Conclusion

Build a Life in Canada With Your Partner

Canada makes it legally possible and immigration-friendly for foreigners to:

• Marry Canadians

• Apply for sponsorship

• Move in together

• Work, study, and live permanently

As long as your relationship is real and your documents are complete, your dream of marrying and living in Canada is within reach.

Need Help With the Process?

We can assist you with:

• Marriage licence guidance

• Sponsorship application setup

• Document checklist

• Open Work Permit filing

• Immigration consultant recommendations