What are the marriage visa requirements for couples applying through immigration Canada?

When people refer to a marriage visa in Canada, they mean marriage sponsorship for permanent residence. This process allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their legally married spouse, but IRCC applies strict requirements to confirm the marriage is valid and the relationship is genuine. Marriage alone does not grant PR status — both partners must meet the sponsorship requirements.

1. Valid Marriage
   The marriage must be legally recognized in the country where it occurred and acceptable under Canadian immigration rules. A government-issued marriage certificate is required; ceremonies without official registration are not enough.

2. Genuine Relationship
   IRCC reviews communication records, photos, time spent together, joint responsibilities, and written statements. Officers look for signs of fraud marriage, or false marriage, so evidence must clearly show a real partnership. 

3. Sponsor Eligibility
   The sponsor must be at least 18 and be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered under the Indian Act. They cannot receive social assistance (except for disability), be in default of previous undertakings or court-ordered support, or have criminal convictions that make them ineligible. Permanent residents must live in Canada, and citizens living abroad must show they will return once their spouse becomes a permanent resident.

4. Applicant Requirements
   The spouse must pass a medical exam, provide police certificates, submit biometrics, be admissible under immigration marriage rules, and provide accurate identity documents.

5. Required Documentation
   A complete file includes identity documents, IMM5532, photos, communication logs, travel evidence, joint financial records, IRCC forms, and required fees.

For professional guidance, our Toronto immigration consultants can support you. Sponsors who spend time abroad often check “Can a Canadian permanent resident sponsor a spouse while temporarily living outside Canada?”, as it addresses a common situation. You may also review Spousal Sponsorship Fees for a full cost overview. To begin, you can book a consultation or explore the spouse sponsorship Canada program.