Can someone apply for a spousal visa without having met their partner in person before marriage?

It is possible to apply for a Spouse Visa or spousal sponsorship without ever meeting your partner in person, but IRCC treats these cases with heightened scrutiny. In certain cultures and religions, arranged marriages occur without prior physical meetings, and Canada recognizes these traditions. However, officers must be fully convinced that the relationship is genuine, committed, and not created for immigration purposes.

1. IRCC Focus: Proving Genuineness

IRCC reviews how the marriage was arranged, the cultural or religious expectations, family involvement, and the couple’s communication patterns, this assessment is not limited to cultural or family involvement but focuses on demonstrating the authenticity of the relationship. Because there is no physical meeting, written communication becomes a crucial part of the PR application. Another relevant reference point for these situations is “What is a conjugal relationship according to IRCC?”

2. Strong Evidence Is Essential

Couples should provide pre-marriage proof such as family introductions, cultural explanations, communication logs, and engagement traditions. Post-marriage evidence—ongoing communication, attempts to meet, Visitor Visa for Spouse applications, and wedding documentation—also strengthens the case.

3. Higher Scrutiny Expected

These cases may involve interviews, procedural fairness letters, or detailed questioning. Weak evidence can lead to refusal, particularly when IRCC doubts the authenticity of the marriage or sees indicators of a potential spouse PR risk.

4. When Safety or Legal Barriers Exist

Where in-person meeting was not possible due to safety, legal, or other compelling reasons, some couples may seek to classify their relationship as conjugal partner sponsorship (if they qualify) or otherwise must provide strong evidence showing inability to meet — but eligibility depends on IRCC’s specific conjugal partner criteria, not just the existence of safety risks.

A strong, well-documented case is essential. Our Toronto immigration consultants can help you prepare a compelling file and avoid unnecessary delays. You may review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees, book a consultation, or start with the Spouse Sponsorship Canada program.