Common Reasons Spousal Sponsorship Applications Are Refused or Delayed
SkyPod Immigration Consulting
A spousal sponsorship application involves more than submitting a marriage certificate and photographs.
IRCC assesses whether the sponsor and applicant meet the applicable requirements and whether the relationship meets the relevant immigration requirements.
Applications can also take longer when additional information, documents or verification are required.
Understanding common problems can help applicants identify avoidable mistakes before submitting an application.
1. Incomplete Applications
Missing forms, signatures, documents or required information can create problems.
Before submitting an application, applicants should carefully review the current IRCC instructions and checklist.
An incomplete application may be returned or may require additional information, depending on the circumstances.
2. Inconsistent Information
Information provided in different parts of an application should be accurate and consistent.
Differences in dates, names, addresses, relationship history or previous immigration information can raise questions and may lead IRCC to request clarification.
Review all forms and supporting documents together before submitting the application.
3. Insufficient Relationship Evidence
IRCC assesses whether the relationship meets the applicable immigration requirements.
Evidence that is limited, unclear or unrelated to the relationship history may make it harder for IRCC to understand the relationship.
Relationship evidence should be relevant, organized and consistent with the information in the application.
4. Concerns About the Genuineness of the Relationship
IRCC may consider whether a relationship is genuine and whether it was entered into primarily for the purpose of acquiring status or privilege under Canadian immigration law.
If an officer has concerns, IRCC may request more information or an interview, depending on the circumstances.
5. Sponsor Eligibility Issues
The sponsor must meet the applicable sponsorship eligibility requirements.
Certain circumstances can affect a person's ability to sponsor. Sponsors should review the current IRCC eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
6. Admissibility Concerns
The sponsored spouse or partner must be admissible to Canada.
Criminal, medical, security or misrepresentation concerns can affect an application. The assessment depends on the individual's circumstances.
7. Missed Requests or Deadlines
IRCC may request additional documents, biometrics, a medical examination or other information during processing.
Not responding within the timeframe provided can cause delays and may affect the outcome of the application.
8. Undisclosed Information
All information should be disclosed accurately, including previous relationships, dependants and previous immigration history.
Failing to disclose relevant information can create serious problems, including potential concerns about misrepresentation.
9. Outdated Forms or Instructions
IRCC updates forms, instructions and checklists from time to time.
Using outdated versions can lead to an application being returned or to requests for additional information.
What Can Applicants Do to Reduce Avoidable Problems?
Before submitting an application, applicants may wish to:
- Review the current IRCC instructions and document checklist
- Use the latest versions of the required forms
- Check that information is consistent throughout the application
- Provide relevant and organized relationship evidence
- Disclose all required information accurately
- Respond promptly to IRCC requests
- Keep contact information updated
No application outcome can be guaranteed. A careful and complete application can, however, help avoid preventable issues.
What If a Spousal Sponsorship Application Is Refused?
If an application is refused, the refusal letter and the reasons provided are important for understanding the next steps.
Available options depend on the circumstances of the case and may include reviewing the refusal, preparing a new application or considering other available processes where applicable.
Applicants should review the refusal carefully before deciding how to proceed.
Need Help With a Spousal Sponsorship Application?
Every relationship and immigration history is different.
If you want professional assistance reviewing your eligibility, forms and supporting documents, you can learn more about SkyPod Immigration's Spousal Sponsorship services below.
Official Sources
Disclaimer: Immigration requirements can change and every application is assessed on its own facts. Always verify the latest requirements through the official Government of Canada website. This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.