When applying for Canadian immigration under the family class, providing evidence of a genuine relationship is crucial. K.S Immigration is here to guide you through the process and ensure your application is complete. This article outlines the types of documents accepted as proof of relationship, whether you are a spouse, common-law partner, or cohabitating. Understanding these requirements can help streamline your application and increase the chances of approval.
Proof of Relationship for Canadian Immigration
1. Proof of Relationship for Spouses
For spouses, the following documents are required to demonstrate the authenticity of the relationship:
- Completed Forms
- Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation Questionnaire (IMM 5532): Essential for your application. Learn more about IMM 5532.
- Marriage Documentation
- Marriage Certificate: A legal document confirming the marriage.
- Proof of Registration: Evidence that the marriage is registered with a government authority. Find out how to obtain marriage registration.
- Divorce Documents: If either partner was previously married, provide proof of divorce.
- Children’s Documents
- Long-form Birth Certificates or Adoption Records: If you have children together.
- Personal Evidence
- Wedding Invitations and Photos: Include invitations and photographs from your wedding.
- Additional Evidence (at least two required)
- Joint Ownership of Property: Proof of shared ownership of residential property.
- Rental Agreement: Document showing both partners as occupants.
- Joint Utility Accounts: Evidence of shared accounts for electricity, gas, telephone, or internet.
- Vehicle Insurance: Documents showing both partners listed at the same address.
- Government-issued Documents: IDs showing the same address, such as driver’s licenses.
- Other Documents: Utility bills, pay stubs, tax forms, or bank statements with the same address.
2. Proof of Relationship for Common-Law Partners
Common-law partners must provide:
- Completed Forms
- Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation Questionnaire (IMM 5532): Required for your application. Learn more about IMM 5532.
- Separation Documentation
- Proof of Separation: If either partner was previously married, provide evidence of separation.
- Statutory Declaration of Severance: If previously in a common-law relationship, submit this form (IMM 5519). Find out more about IMM 5519.
- Children’s Documents
- Long-form Birth Certificates or Adoption Records: For children you have together.
- Personal Evidence
- Photos: Images showing both partners in a conjugal relationship.
- Additional Evidence (at least two required)
- Recognition of Relationship: Documents showing each partner is recognized as the other’s common-law partner (e.g., employment or insurance benefits).
- Financial Support: Evidence of financial support and shared expenses.
- Public Recognition: Proof of relationship recognized by friends and family (e.g., letters, social media).
- Cohabitation Evidence (if currently living together)
- Joint Ownership or Rental Agreements: Proof of shared residence.
- Joint Utility Accounts: Shared accounts for essential services.
- Vehicle Insurance: Insurance showing both partners at the same address.
- Government-issued Documents: IDs and other documents showing the same address.
- Other Documents: Cell phone bills, pay stubs, tax forms, etc.
- Cohabitation Evidence (if not currently living together)
- Proof of Past Cohabitation: Documentation showing at least one year of cohabitation.
- Proof of Contact: Letters, messages, or social media conversations.
- Proof of Visits: Airline tickets, boarding passes, or passport stamps.
3. Proof of Cohabitation
To prove cohabitation, include:
- Joint Financial Accounts: Bank accounts or credit cards held jointly.
- Joint Property Ownership: Evidence of shared ownership of residential property.
- Joint Leases or Rental Receipts: Leases showing both names.
- Shared Utility Accounts: Bills for essential services in both names.
- Joint Purchases: Receipts or evidence of shared household purchases.
- Correspondence: Mail addressed to both at the same address.
- Important Documents: IDs and insurance policies showing the same address.
- Shared Responsibilities: Evidence of joint management of household chores.
4. Assessing for Relationship of Convenience
If the documents do not convincingly demonstrate a genuine relationship, additional information may be requested or an interview scheduled. Officers may use a Supplementary Relationship Questionnaire (IMM 5526) to assess the legitimacy of the relationship. Learn more about IMM 5526.
For expert guidance and personalized assistance with your Canadian immigration application, contact K.S Immigration. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of the immigration process.