How does conjugal partner immigration work in Canada?

Conjugal partner immigration is a specialized sponsorship pathway created for couples who share a genuine, long-term, marriage-like relationship but cannot marry or live together due to significant external obstacles. It is intended to help couples with no other viable pathway to reunite. To sponsor a conjugal partner, the sponsor must prove both the relationship and the legal or practical reasons you cannot live together.

1. What Is a Conjugal Partnership?
   A conjugal partner relationship is marriage-like in commitment, depth, and duration. The couple must show at least 12 months of emotional connection, exclusivity, financial or practical interdependence, and continuous efforts to maintain the relationship despite distance.

2. Barriers Must Be Real and Documented
   IRCC only approves conjugal applications when the couple proves substantial barriers, such as:

• Legal restrictions (same-sex criminalization, divorce bans)
• Immigration obstacles (visa refusals, exit permit issues)
• Cultural or religious opposition creating a real risk

These barriers must be proven with objective evidence, not only personal explanations.

3. Evidence Expectations
   Conjugal files require extensive documentation, often more than other sponsorship categories. Evidence may include communication history, photos, travel attempts, financial support, shared plans, affidavits, and legal documents showing the barriers.

4. How IRCC Assesses the Application
   Officers evaluate relationship depth, commitment, efforts to be together, and the seriousness of barriers. Applications are refused when couples simply choose not to marry or can live together, but have not tried. For a deeper look at how officers review these cases, you can also see “How does IRCC assess conjugal partner sponsorship applications?”

For tailored guidance, our Toronto immigration consultants can help you prepare a strong file. You may begin with the Spouse Sponsorship Canada program for a full overview of the process. You can also review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees, and if needed, you may book a consultation for personalized support.