Can Same-Sex Marriage apply for citizenship?

Canada fully recognizes same-sex marriages for all immigration pathways, including spousal sponsorship, permanent residence, and, eventually, citizenship. Under Canadian immigration law, same-sex couples are treated the same as opposite-sex couples. What matters is that the marriage is legally valid where it occurred and reflects a genuine, committed relationship.

However, marriage itself does not grant citizenship automatically. Your spouse must first become a permanent resident. After receiving permanent residence through the Spousal Sponsorship Program, they can apply for citizenship once they meet the following requirements:

• Physical presence: 1,095 days in Canada within the last five years
• Language ability: Basic English or French, if required
• Tax filing: Filed Canadian taxes as needed
• Application process: Complete the citizenship test and submit a full application

For couples from countries where same-sex marriage is illegal, restricted, or unsafe, IRCC offers flexibility and understands that traditional relationship documentation may not be available. In these cases, applicants may need to provide alternative evidence, explain cultural or privacy limitations, describe safety risks in detail, and consider the conjugal or common-law categories if marriage or cohabitation is impossible. Reviewing a comparison of spousal programs can help determine the most suitable option. To better understand how Canadian immigration handles LGBTQ+ relationships, you may read “Does immigration accept same-sex marriage?”

A strong application can make a meaningful difference in the outcome. Our experienced Toronto immigration consultants can guide you through every stage of the process with clarity and confidence. You may also review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees for a detailed breakdown of service costs. For personalized support tailored to your situation, you can book a consultation with one of our specialists.