Spousal Sponsorship Document Checklist: What You Need to Prepare

Preparing the right documents is one of the most important parts of a spousal sponsorship application.

IRCC requires sponsors and applicants to provide forms, identity documents, relationship evidence and other supporting information. The exact documents required can depend on the applicant's circumstances and the current IRCC application checklist.

Because immigration requirements can change, applicants should always use the current IRCC instructions and personalized document checklist when preparing an application.

Here is an overview of the major document categories you may need to consider.

1. Sponsor Documents

The sponsor generally needs to provide documents confirming their identity, status in Canada and eligibility to sponsor.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include documents such as:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence
• Identity documents
• Address and contact information
• Relationship information
• Financial or employment information where required
• Other documents requested by IRCC

The exact requirements depend on the sponsor's circumstances.

2. Principal Applicant Documents

The sponsored spouse or partner may need to provide documents establishing their identity and personal information.

These can include:

• Passport or travel document
• Birth certificate
• National identity documents where applicable
• Civil-status documents
• Previous immigration documents, if applicable
• Other documents listed in the applicable IRCC checklist

Make sure names, dates of birth and other personal information are consistent across the application.

3. Proof of Your Relationship

Relationship evidence is an important part of a spousal sponsorship application.

Depending on your circumstances, evidence may include:

• Marriage certificate
• Wedding photographs
• Photographs together over time
• Communication records
• Travel records
• Joint financial documents
• Joint residential documents
• Evidence of visits
• Evidence of family or social recognition of the relationship
• Other documents demonstrating the history of the relationship

The appropriate evidence depends on the couple's circumstances.

The goal is not simply to provide a large number of documents. Evidence should be relevant, organized and consistent with the information provided in the application.

4. Marriage Documents

If you are legally married, you will generally need documentation establishing the marriage.

This may include a marriage certificate or other documentation accepted by IRCC.

Applicants should ensure that marriage documents meet the applicable Canadian immigration requirements.

5. Police Certificates

Police certificates may be required depending on the applicant's age, country of residence and immigration history.

Applicants should follow the current IRCC instructions regarding which police certificates are required and how they must be obtained.

Do not rely on an old checklist because police-certificate requirements can vary based on individual circumstances.

6. Medical Examination

The sponsored applicant may be required to complete an immigration medical examination.

Medical instructions should be followed according to the current IRCC process.

Do not schedule a medical examination based solely on information found in an old online checklist because IRCC procedures can change.

7. Photographs

Immigration applications commonly require photographs that meet specific specifications.

Make sure photographs follow the current IRCC requirements rather than relying on general passport-photo standards.

8. Immigration Forms

Spousal sponsorship applications include several forms.

The forms required can vary depending on the applicant's situation.

Before submitting the application:

• Use the latest versions of the required forms
• Answer all applicable questions
• Review dates carefully
• Ensure names and personal information are consistent
• Include signatures where required
• Check that forms are validated where applicable