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When researching Canadian immigration options for you or your partner, you’ll often see different terms used to describe relationships. Canada recognizes three main relationship types for sponsorship purposes:

• Spouse

• Common-law partner

• Conjugal partner

Understanding which category applies to you is essential, as each has its own eligibility rules and documentation requirements.

Who Can Be Considered a Spouse?

You are considered a spouse if:

• You and your partner are legally married in Canada or in another country

• The marriage is legally valid where it took place

• The marriage is between any gender

Important Notes

• IRCC does not accept proxy marriages (marriages conducted by phone, online, or through representatives if one or both partners were not physically present)

• An exception may apply for members of the Canadian Armed Forces

Documents Required to Sponsor a Spouse

To sponsor your spouse, you must submit:

• Completed sponsorship and immigration application forms

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status

• Proof of identity (passports, IDs)

• Marriage certificate or license

• Police certificates from every country where your spouse lived for 6+ months after age 18

• Medical examination certificate

• Proof of payment of government fees

• Digital photographs

• Relationship questionnaire and sponsorship evaluation forms

• Wedding cards, photos, and event evidence

• Birth certificates or adoption papers for any children together

• Proof that the marriage was legally registered

Who Qualifies as a Common-Law Partner?

A common-law partner is someone you have:

• Lived with continuously for at least 12 months

• Maintained a committed, marriage-like relationship

• Shared emotional, financial, and social responsibilities with

Common-law relationships are recognized regardless of gender.

How to Prove a Common-Law Relationship

You must demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and ongoing by showing:

• Continuous cohabitation

• Shared household responsibilities

• Financial interdependence (joint planning, shared expenses)

• Emotional commitment and mutual support

• Public recognition as a couple

• Evidence of loyalty and long-term intention

Acceptable Supporting Documents (Provide at Least Two)

• Joint lease agreements or proof of shared residence

• Joint bank accounts or financial statements

• Utility bills with both names

• Government-issued IDs showing the same address

• Insurance policies (health, vehicle, or life)

• Pay stubs or tax documents listing the same address

• Birth certificates or adoption records of shared children

• Photos showing the relationship over time

• Letters, emails, or social media posts showing public acknowledgment

If formal documents are unavailable, submit sworn statements or letters from friends and family explaining the nature of your relationship.

Who Is a Conjugal Partner?

A conjugal partner is someone who:

• Lives outside Canada

• Has been in a committed relationship with the sponsor for at least one year

• Cannot live together or marry due to serious barriers

These barriers may include:

• Legal restrictions (e.g., divorce not permitted)

• Immigration barriers

• Religious or cultural restrictions

• Sexual orientation restrictions in the home country.

Proving a Conjugal Relationship

Sponsors must show:

• A relationship of at least one year

• Long-term emotional and financial commitment

• Evidence of attempts to live together or marry

• Proof of significant barriers preventing cohabitation or marriage

Conjugal partnerships are assessed very carefully and approved only in exceptional cases.

When You Don’t Have Formal Proof

If you lack official documentation (for married or common-law relationships), you must provide:

• Strong emotional and social evidence

• Detailed written explanations

• Third-party declarations confirming your commitment

The stronger and more consistent your evidence, the higher your chances of approval.

Final Thoughts

Before sponsoring your partner, it’s crucial to:

• Identify the correct relationship category

• Understand the documentation requirements

• Prepare strong and organized evidence

Each relationship type has different rules, and choosing the wrong category can delay or jeopardize your application.

If you still have questions, consider reviewing official IRCC resources or consulting an immigration professional.

Summary

• Different types of relationships recognized by IRCC

• Spousal sponsorship requirements

• Common-law partnership rules

• Conjugal partnership explained

• Importance of strong proof of relationship.