Why is an affidavit sometimes required in marriage sponsorship cases to verify marital history or identity?

An affidavit is a sworn legal statement often required in marriage sponsorship applications when regular documents do not fully explain a couple’s marital history, identity details, or cultural circumstances. IRCC may request an affidavit when information in the application is unclear, incomplete, or missing, especially in cases involving marriage immigration or complex family history. The purpose is to provide credible proof that supports the authenticity of the relationship and confirms the details presented. You may also read “What penalties can result from entering a fake marriage to obtain immigration benefits?”, which explains why complete and accurate information is so important.

Affidavits are commonly used in situations involving:

Marital History Clarification
When previous marriages were customary, religious, unregistered, or occurred in regions with weak record-keeping. An affidavit can explain lost or unavailable marriage certificate records, unusual timelines, or details that seem inconsistent.

Identity Issues
Variations in names, spelling differences, translation inconsistencies, or legally changed names that were never formally documented.

Cultural or Safety Barriers
Some couples cannot provide typical relationship evidence due to cultural restrictions, privacy risks, or safety concerns. An affidavit helps clarify why the required relationship documentation is limited.

Witness Confirmation
Family or community members may submit affidavits to confirm the couple’s relationship. These sworn statements strengthen the file and help clarify details that could otherwise raise concerns about fraud marriage, or a fake marriage.

IRCC accepts affidavits because they fill gaps that standard documents cannot, adding credibility and context to the immigration file.

A complete file improves approval outcomes. Our Toronto immigration consultants can guide you through what is required. You may review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees, as well as book a consultation, or begin exploring the Spouse Sponsorship Canada program.