What Proof of Relationship Is Needed for Canadian Spousal Sponsorship?

If you're applying for Canadian Spousal Sponsorship, one of the most important parts of your application is proving that your relationship is real. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) needs to see strong Proof of Relationship to prevent fraud and ensure that couples are genuinely committed.

This article will walk you through what counts as valid Proof of Relationship, how to collect and organize your documents, and tips to improve your chances of a successful application.

 

Why Proof of Relationship Matters in Canadian Spousal Sponsorship

The Canadian government wants to make sure that only genuine couples receive immigration benefits. In recent years, there have been cases of "marriages of convenience," where people pretend to be in a relationship just to get permanent residence.

To prevent this, the IRCC carefully reviews every Canadian Spousal Sponsorship application to make sure the relationship is legitimate. The better your Proof of Relationship, the stronger your case.

 

Types of Relationships Eligible for Sponsorship

Before we talk about evidence, it’s important to understand what types of relationships can be sponsored:

1. Spouse – You are legally married.
2. Common-law partner – You have lived together for at least 12 consecutive months.
3. Conjugal partner – You are in a committed relationship but cannot live together or marry due to serious barriers (like immigration laws, religion, or sexual orientation restrictions).

Each type of relationship requires different forms of Proof of Relationship, but the goal is always the same: showing the IRCC that your relationship is genuine and continuing.

 

What Counts as Proof of Relationship?

Here’s a breakdown of the most common and helpful documents to include in a Canadian Spousal Sponsorship application:

1. Marriage Certificate (for married couples)

A legal marriage certificate is required if you are married. If the marriage took place outside Canada, it must be legally valid in the country where it occurred and in Canada.

2. Photos Together

Submit pictures of you and your partner at different times and places, including with family and friends. Choose photos from key moments like holidays, celebrations, and daily life. Include short captions with names, dates, and locations.

3. Travel Records

Proof of travel together—such as plane tickets, hotel bookings, or passport stamps—helps show that you have spent time as a couple. Even boarding passes and travel itineraries can be useful.

4. Communication History

Show regular contact through text messages, emails, phone records, and social media. Be sure to include:

• Screenshots of chats with visible dates and names
• Call logs showing frequent communication
• Letters or cards exchanged over time

5. Shared Finances and Assets

Documents showing shared responsibilities or finances are very helpful, especially for common-law couples. This can include:

• Joint bank accounts
• Leases or mortgages with both names
• Utility bills addressed to both
• Insurance policies listing one another as beneficiaries

6. Statements from Friends and Family

These are called statutory declarations. Friends or family members can write letters explaining how they know you and your partner, and why they believe your relationship is genuine. Ideally, they should be notarized or signed in front of a commissioner of oaths.

7. Social Media Evidence

Screenshots of posts, comments, or tagged photos on platforms like Facebook or Instagram can help prove your relationship is public and ongoing. Show consistent and meaningful interaction online.

8. Children Together

If you and your partner have children together, include birth certificates listing both parents’ names. You can also provide photos of your family life.

9. Proof of Living Together 

This is especially important. Include:

• Joint lease or rental agreement
• Shared household bills
• Driver’s licenses or ID showing the same address
• Mail addressed to both of you at the same place

 

Tips for Organizing Your Proof of Relationship

• Be honest and consistent: All your documents and forms should tell the same story. If there are inconsistencies, explain them clearly in a letter. When you work with our office, we regularly submit an affidavit on behalf of the sponsor to tie the evidence together. 
• Translate documents: If your documents are not in English or French, provide certified translations that follow IRCC translation requirements.
• Label everything: Follow IRCC naming conventions when submitting documents online. 
• Avoid overloading: More is not always better. Focus on quality and relevance over quantity. This is helpful to avoid delays. 

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not enough evidence: Some couples assume a marriage certificate or common-law attestation form is enough. It’s not. You need supporting evidence.
2. Outdated documents: Try to use recent records to show your relationship is still active.
3. Inconsistent addresses: If your documents show different home addresses, this can raise red flags. Be ready to explain.
4. Ignoring translation requirements: Untranslated documents can delay your application. 

 

What Happens If IRCC Isn’t Convinced?

If IRCC thinks your Proof of Relationship isn’t strong enough, they may:

• Ask for more evidence
• Call you for an interview
• Refuse your application

To avoid these outcomes, be proactive. Treat your sponsorship like a legal case: gather solid evidence and present it clearly.

 

Spousal Sponsorship Proof of Relationship Evidence

Building a strong Canadian Spousal Sponsorship application depends heavily on how well you prove your relationship. Whether you’re married, in a common-law relationship, or a conjugal partner, taking the time to gather detailed and convincing Proof of Relationship will significantly improve your chances of success.

 

Need help or personalized legal advice with your spousal sponsorship proof of relationship evidence?

If you’re unsure where to begin or want help reviewing your documents, working with an immigration professional can make a big difference.

Book a strategy session today: https://sisulegal.com/pages/booking-immigration-law-windsor-troy

We're here to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.