What is proof of funds for spousal sponsorship?

Spousal sponsorship is one of the most accessible pathways in Canadian immigration, and unlike many other programs, it does not require sponsors to meet a fixed LICO amount or strict income requirements. When applying for a marriage visa or spouse sponsorship under the family class, there is no minimum bank balance you must present. However, IRCC must still be satisfied that the sponsor can support their partner without relying on social assistance. This financial review is part of the broader sponsorship requirements and ensures the sponsored spouse can transition smoothly once they receive PR.

Even though a specific amount of funds is not required, providing financial documents can strengthen your visa application by demonstrating overall stability. Useful documents include:

• An employment letter showing job title, salary, and start date
• Recent pay stubs
• Bank statements
• Notice of Assessment from recent tax years
• Proof of housing, such as a lease or mortgage
• A brief statement explaining how you will support your spouse if your income is modest
  

These documents help IRCC confirm that you can meet essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and daily living costs. Higher income considerations only arise in limited situations, such as when the spouse has a dependent child who also has a child.

A well-prepared financial section can strengthen your application significantly. For additional financial considerations, you can review “How much income is required to sponsor a spouse in Canada?”

Our Toronto immigration consultants can help you understand what documents to include. You may review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees for a detailed cost overview. When you’re ready for personalized guidance, you can book a consultation or begin exploring the spouse sponsorship Canada program.