Canada is renowned for its welcoming family reunification immigration policies, making it possible for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their common-law partners, conjugal partners, or spouses for permanent residency. However, it is important to follow the immigration rules and application guidelines as outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), as failing to meet IRCC’s requirements could lead to application rejection. At Rothe International Canada, we are committed to assisting families in overcoming these challenges to reunite successfully. Let’s dive into six common reasons that can lead to the denial of spouse/partner sponsorship applications and learn how Rothe International Canada can provide you with expert guidance throughout the process.
The first step in a successful spouse/partner sponsorship application is ensuring the sponsor meets eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Sponsors must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and have not declared bankruptcy, and are not discharged or receiving social assistance (except for disability). Additionally, sponsors who have previously failed to support a sponsored family member financially may also be deemed ineligible. The sponsor should also not be behind on payments for immigration loans, court-ordered family support payments, or have been convicted of a violent criminal offence, an offence against a relative causing bodily harm or a sexual offence within or outside Canada. Always check detailed eligibility on IRCC’s website thoroughly before submission.
Eligibility is just as critical for the spouse/partner being sponsored as it is for the sponsor. They should be legally married to the sponsor, in a common-law relationship with the sponsor, or in a conjugal relationship with the sponsor, at least 18 years of age (note that fiancé/spousal intentions with engagements aren't considered eligible grounds for spouse/partner sponsorship), and be in a genuine relationship beyond seeking permanent resident status. Ineligibility may also stem from causes such as past criminal records, security risks, or inadmissibility due to certain serious health conditions that could endanger Canada’s public health or safety. Always check detailed eligibility on IRCC’s website thoroughly before submission.
Canadian permanent residents cannot sponsor their spouse/partner if they are living outside of Canada. Unlike Canadian citizens who may sponsor their spouse/partner while residing abroad, permanent residents must physically reside in Canada during the sponsorship process. They will need to be in Canada when submitting a spouse/partner sponsorship application. Canadian citizens who are sponsoring their spouse/partner and are residing abroad must demonstrate their intention and plan to reside in Canada when their spouse/partner’s application for permanent residence is approved.
Misrepresentation is one of the most common reasons for sponsorship denial. Providing false information, withholding details, or submitting fraudulent documents can lead to severe consequences, including being banned from Canada for up to five years. One could have a permanent record of fraud with IRCC, have their temporary or permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship be taken away, or could even be removed from Canada. Whether intentional or accidental, any form of misrepresentation will be added to your immigration record and could affect future applications. Always ensure your application is accurate and truthful.
Canada takes relationship fraud seriously, and IRCC emphasizes that spouse/partner sponsorship applications are evaluated carefully. A relationship of convenience—where individuals enter a relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident solely for immigration purposes—may have their application refused and be banned to travel to Canada for 5 years. Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are in a relationship of convenience for immigration reasons may be charged with a crime.
Canadian citizens or permanent residents who wish to sponsor their spouse/partner will need to provide sufficient evidence and documentation that the relationship is genuine – this may include joint bank account statements, government issued documents, utility bills, and/or other documents showing the same address, photographs and social media conversations, etc… Lack of proof of relationship documents may require further explanation to satisfy the reviewing officer’s doubts about the genuine nature of the relationship.
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation is another frequent cause of denial. Missing forms or documents, improperly completed paperwork, forgetting to upload proof of application fee payment, or failure to respond to IRCC’s requests for additional evidence or information can delay or even jeopardize your application. It’s crucial to carefully review all requirements and ensure all the required documents and forms are both accurate and complete before submission.
How Rothe International Canada Can Help with Your Spouse/Partner Sponsorship Application
There are many aspects to consider in preparing a comprehensive sponsorship application. it is crucial to complete all required forms accurately while staying updated on IRCC’s latest guidelines. Complex immigration applications and procedures may be difficult to navigate on your own.
At Rothe International Canada, we provide our clients with guidance and personalized support to assist clients in achieving their dreams of reuniting with their loved ones to start a new happy journey in Canada. We have extensive successful experience in guiding clients throughout the application process, assisting clients in compiling necessary documents to strengthen their sponsorship applications, and ensuring that you understand the requirements and procedures involved. We also offer professional advice on timing applications and expected approval timelines while assisting with arrival planning. We have represented many candidates and would be delighted to assist you.
For further enquiries, please contact us at 2868 3780 or email [email protected]
【Read More】 Differences Between Inland and Outland Canada Spousal Sponsorship
【Read More】 Overview of Common-Law Partner Sponsorship Applications to Canada
【Read More】Should I Apply for Inland or Outland Spousal Sponsorship?
Disclaimer
The information provided above is for general private reference purposes only and is not intended to be a comprehensive explanation of Canadian immigration laws or a substitute for professional legal advice. Rothe International Canada is not responsible for any losses caused by the use of the above information.
If you have any specific questions, you are welcome to contact Rothe International Canada directly at (852) 2868-3780 or fill in our online enquiry form.