Serbia to Canada Spousal Sponsorship
Last updated: January, 2026
Are you planning to sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner from Serbia to Canada? You may be wondering whether Serbia has any country-specific requirements that could complicate the process.
The short answer is yes—but they are limited and very specific, and easy to manage if handled correctly.
Based on IRCC’s Serbia instructions and our experience with Serbia-based files, here is exactly what you need to know.
With Serbia-based sponsorship applications, the key is accurate military disclosure and clean documentation, rather than navigating multiple country add-ons.
Between 2016 and 2025, our Toronto immigration consultants assisted 103 clients from Serbia, so we know exactly where Serbia-based sponsorship applications tend to slow down—and how to avoid it. If you’d like a full overview, you can visit our Spousal Sponsorship page, review our spousal sponsorship fees, and book a consultation for more personalized guidance based on your situation.
Country-Specific Documents
Additional forms for residents
Serbia requires one additional form in specific situations:
- Details of Military Service (IMM 5546)
The principal applicant must complete this form if they served in the military at any time between 1991–1995 or in 1999.
If applicable, you must also submit copies of all pages of the military booklet, including blank pages.
If the applicant did not serve during these periods, IMM 5546 is not required.
Document instructions
IRCC currently lists no special document instructions for Serbia beyond the military service requirement. Standard civil documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce records if applicable) are accepted as long as they are clear, complete, and consistent.
The Hidden Hurdle
Delays most often occur when:
- military service history is incomplete or unclear,
- military booklets are missing pages, or
- service dates are inconsistent across Schedule A, IMM 5546, and supporting documents.
Clear disclosure and full documentation are critical.
Translation Requirements
Most Serbian civil and military documents are not in English or French. If a document is not in English or French, submit:
- the original document (or a clear copy), and
- a certified translation that meets IRCC requirements.
Names, dates, and service details must match exactly across forms and translations.
