What proof is needed for spousal sponsorship?

When applying for spousal sponsorship, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must be convinced that your relationship is genuine, committed, and ongoing. A marriage certificate or common-law declaration alone is not enough; officers must see that your relationship exists in real life. A strong application includes identity documents, relationship proof, and a clear personal history that aligns with IRCC’s checklist. For more information on relationship evidence, including examples, practical tips, and common pitfalls, refer to our proof of relationship page.

To start, both partners must provide accurate identity and civil status documents, including passports, government-issued IDs, and birth certificates. These confirm who you are and establish the legal basis for your partnership.

IRCC also reviews how the relationship developed. This may include photos taken over time, communication records such as chats or call logs, letters exchanged, and written timelines describing the growth of the relationship. Officers also look for proof of time spent together, including flight tickets, passport stamps, hotel receipts, and similar records. For additional clarity on relationship documentation, you may want to review “What is strong evidence for a spouse visa?”

For married or common-law couples, evidence of shared life is especially helpful, such as joint leases, shared bank accounts, utility bills, insurance policies, or joint memberships. Letters or affidavits from family and friends can further strengthen the application.

To ensure your application is complete and meets all required standards, our Toronto immigration consultants provide full support throughout the process. You can review information about our Spousal Sponsorship Fees, and for personalized guidance tailored to your situation, you may book a consultation or begin exploring the Spouse Sponsorship Canada program for your next steps.