Advertisements
Are you interested in Moving to Canada via Marriage? This is the guide you need. Obtaining a Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada through marriage involves a significant combination of personal commitment and adherence to immigration laws.
By marrying a Canadian citizen, you unlock the opportunity to establish your life in Canada as a permanent resident, blending your love story with a clearly defined path for migration. This article presents a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to aid you in achieving Canadian PR through marriage. This guide provides the information and preparedness necessary for this substantial endeavor.
Step 1: Comprehend the Legal Aspects of Marriage
To begin your immigration journey, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the legal aspects of marriage in Canada. It’s crucial to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized in both the country where it took place and in Canada.
For couples intending to marry in Canada, it’s important to note that marriage laws can vary between provinces or territories. Take the time to acquaint yourself with the specific marriage regulations in your chosen location. This foundational step ensures the legality of your marriage in the eyes of Canadian immigration authorities.

Step 2: Begin the Sponsorship Application
Advertisements
The journey towards obtaining Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through marriage starts primarily with the sponsorship application. Your Canadian spouse must initiate a sponsorship application with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to support your permanent residency.
A. Eligibility Requirements:
– The sponsoring spouse must be at least 18 years of age.
– The sponsor must be either a Canadian citizen, an individual registered in Canada under the Canadian Indian Act, or a permanent resident currently living in Canada.
– The sponsor must demonstrate that they are not receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability.
– The sponsor needs to provide evidence of their ability to meet the basic needs of the person they are sponsoring.
B. Application Package:
– Acquire the complete application package from the official IRCC website.
– Verify that all forms are completed precisely and that all required documents are included.
– Satisfy the application fees, which encompass processing, the right of permanent residence, and biometrics fees.
Step 3: Choosing Between Inland and Outland Applications
When pursuing a Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through marriage, you can choose between an inland or outland application.
A. Inland Application:
– The sponsored foreign national resides in Canada while the application is being processed.
– The applicant may be eligible to apply for an open work permit.
– Processing times may be extended, and the applicant must remain in Canada throughout the procedure.
B. Outland Application:
– The application is processed through the visa office in the applicant’s home country.
– Opting for this route may result in shorter processing times and allow the applicant to travel in and out of Canada during the process.
Step 4: Application Processing and Evaluation
Once the application is submitted, the IRCC will meticulously assess it for completeness. If it meets the requirements, the application will proceed to the processing stage, which includes background checks, verifying the provided information, and possibly conducting an interview.
Step 5: Decision and Post-Decision Procedure
Upon approval, the foreign national will receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if necessary, a permanent resident visa. In case of application denial, the IRCC will provide reasons, and applicants can explore options for appeal or reapplication.
Step 6: Arrival in Canada and Establishing PR Status
With the COPR, the foreign national can enter Canada and complete the process to obtain permanent resident status. It’s crucial to adhere to all requirements and keep your documents updated with the IRCC.
Who can sponsor their spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner through the spousal sponsorship program?
- The individuals who are eligible to sponsor their spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner through the spousal sponsorship program must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
- You need to be at least 18 years of age.
- You must either reside in Canada or have the intention to return to Canada when your spouse or partner becomes a permanent resident of Canada.
- You must have the financial capability and willingness to support your spouse or partner for three years.
Moving to Canada via Marriage – How long does it take to sponsor your spouse or partner to Canada?
The typical processing time for sponsoring your spouse or partner to Canada is approximately 12 months, from the beginning of the application process to the final decision. However, it’s important to note that this timeline can vary and may be extended, especially in cases with complexities or if the visa office requests additional evidence of your relationship.
Moving to Canada via Marriage – How much does It cost to sponsor your spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner to Canada?
The government processing fees for sponsoring your spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner in Canada are as follows:
– Sponsorship fee: $75
– Principal applicant processing fee: $490
– Right of permanent residence fee: $515
– Biometrics fee: $85
This totals $1,165. If your spouse, conjugal partner, or common-law partner has dependent children, you must pay an additional $150 for each child included in the application.
Please note that if the sponsor resides in Quebec or plans to reside in Quebec upon receiving permanent residence, an extra fee of CAD 310 will be required in addition to the abovementioned fees.

Moving to Canada via Marriage – What is common-law sponsorship?
Common-law sponsorship refers to sponsoring a partner with whom you share a common-law relationship. This means that you and your partner are not legally married, but you have lived together in a relationship that resembles a marriage for a duration exceeding 12 months. Canadian immigration law acknowledges these relationships as being on par with traditional marriages, enabling you to sponsor your common-law partner for permanent residence in Canada. As part of the sponsorship application, you must provide evidence of your common-law partnership.
Conclusion on Moving to Canada via Marriage
Embarking on the route to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through marriage is a multifaceted voyage that integrates personal and legal dimensions. It necessitates careful consideration at each stage, transparency, and preparedness for potential contingencies to ensure a smooth progression along this path.
It’s crucial to emphasize that genuine relationships are the cornerstone of successful applications. Authenticity should be upheld throughout the process, encompassing adherence to legal requirements and the personal aspects of the relationship.
Please remember that for the most accurate and current information, always consult the official IRCC website or seek guidance from a registered Canadian immigration consultant, as immigration policies are subject to change.
SEE ALSO: 17+ Best Paying Jobs to Immigrate to Canada in 2023
Caregiver Jobs in USA For Foreigners
Unskilled Visa sponsorship Jobs In the US in 2023
Sweden Government Visa Sponsorship Jobs 2023 – Apply Now
Advertisements