What barriers qualify a couple for conjugal partner sponsorship?

To qualify for conjugal partner sponsorship in Canada, a couple must face significant, real-world barriers that make both marriage and 12 months of cohabitation impossible. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires these barriers to be genuine, well-documented, and fully outside the couple’s control. Conjugal sponsorship is not a substitute for marriage or common-law status, it applies only when neither option is realistically available. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, experienced Canadian immigration consultants can help you assess your circumstances. You can also review standard pathways such as Spousal Sponsorship to see if another category may be a better fit.

The most commonly accepted barriers include:

1. Immigration Barriers

Cases where one partner cannot legally enter or remain in the other’s country long enough to marry or cohabit, including repeated visa refusals, strict entry restrictions, or inability to obtain long-term status.

2. Legal Barriers

Laws preventing marriage or cohabitation, such as lack of divorce recognition, unachievable consent or guardianship requirements, or restrictions on specific types of marriages.

3. Cultural or Religious Barriers

Severe cultural or religious constraints that make marriage impossible without conditions the couple cannot meet, not simply family disapproval.

4. Sexual Orientation Barriers

Countries where same-sex marriage, relationships, or cohabitation are illegal or unsafe.

5. Safety or Conflict-Based Barriers

War, civil unrest, or dangerous conditions that prevent travel or living together.

IRCC approves conjugal sponsorship only when no other sponsorship route is realistically available. If you need help determining whether this category fits your situation or whether another pathway may be more suitable, you can book an appointment with our team. You may also explore our Immigration Consultant Fees to better understand service options.