No One Enjoys This. Here is How to Start Preparing Your Spousal Sponsorship
MARJORIE CURET
DEC 23, 2024
You Don’t Want Delays.
Make sure your spousal sponsorship application doesn’t get sent back to you because of documents.
Here’s a list of documents you should start collecting- remember there may be differences depending on your unique circumstance.
For example, if you are from the Philippines you may need a CENOMAR; if you are from Jordan, you should add your Family Book, so make sure to look for country specific requirements.
This is just a good starting point.
I notice that there are three kinds of people: those that like to organize their documents electronically, those that keep them cataloged in binders and those that have to order all new documents.
Either way, you are okay- let’s keep collecting.
1. Proof of Identity
For both the sponsor and the applicant
Many people have no idea how important establishing identity is in immigration.
Find your:
- Passports (all pages with stamps/visas)
- Birth certificates
- Government-issued photo ID
2. Proof of Relationship
To demonstrate that your relationship is genuine:
- Marriage certificate (translated if not in English/French).
- Photos of your wedding, trips together, or time spent with each other’s families.
- Chat logs, emails, or call records showing ongoing communication.
- Financial support documents (e.g., joint bank accounts, money transfers).
- Proof of shared addresses (e.g., leases, utility bills).
- Statements or affidavits from family and friends confirming your relationship.
3. Financial Documents
To show you can support your spouse, consider:
- Notices of Assessment (from the Canada Revenue Agency)
- Pay stubs or proof of employment
- Bank statements
- Employment Letter
4. Proof of Sponsor’s Status
This is just part of your eligibility to sponsor, include:
- Canadian citizenship certificate (or citizenship card), birth certificate, passport or permanent resident card
5. PR Photo
- A high digital resolution image of the applicant following these specifications. Make sure to include an image of the back with the name, date of birth, date the image was taken and name/address of photo studio.
6. Security Documents & Medical
For the applicant:
- Police certificates from all countries where they’ve lived for six months or more since age 18. You can find how on Immigration’s website.
- Medical exam results (to be done by an IRCC-approved doctor). People generally have to wait to get the right form requesting this and then make an appointment using their IME (Immigration Medical Examination) number found on the form- so just wait until this comes in.
7. Additional Documents
Depending on your situation, you may need:
- Divorce certificates or annulment documents (if either of you was previously married)
- Custody documents for dependent children
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
- The applicant’s status document if they are in Canada (work permit, visitor record, study permit etc.)
Tips:
Start early! Some documents, like police certificates, can take weeks or even months to obtain.
Translate non-English/French documents: Use a certified translator and include an affidavit if needed.
Stay organized: Keep copies of everything and label your files for easy reference. You will have to have digital images these days, so scan or take pictures of what you have to be uploaded later for your spousal sponsorship.
Happy Collecting & Organizing!
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