Spousal Sponsorship Application and Genuineness (Bona fide relationship)

Bona fide can be defined as ‘made in good faith, without deception or fraud’. When applying for spousal sponsorship in Canada, one of the key components is demonstrating the genuineness of the relationship. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires applicants to provide evidence that their relationship is authentic and not entered into to obtain immigration benefits. That is so-called ‘marriage of convenience’

Specifically, Section 4 of IRPR (Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations) prohibits bad faith relationships, stating:

• 4 (1) For these Regulations, a foreign national shall not be considered a spouse, a common-law partner or a conjugal partner of a person if the marriage, common-law partnership, or conjugal partnership
• (a) was entered into primarily to acquire any status or privilege under the Act; or
• (b) is not genuine

To prove the genuineness of their marriage or partnership, in addition to a Marriage Certificate and other mandatory government forms and documents, applicants can submit a variety of supporting documents, such as:

• Photographs from various stages of the relationship.
• Messages exchanged between partners during the time they lived separated and together.
• Social Media screenshots. Very often, IRCC officers will check social media to confirm the genuineness. Screenshots of posts on social media platforms showing you together, your interactions, your relationship status, and pictures can also provide additional proof.
• Affidavits from close friends and family members. To avoid bias, submit Affidavits from a variety of friends and not just close family members.
• Proof of financial support.
• Proof of visits, airline tickets, hotel bookings, trips together etc.

Additionally, joint financial commitments can serve as strong indicators of a bona-fide (genuine) relationship. Documents like joint bank account statements shared property ownership, naming each other on health benefits or co-lease agreements can substantiate claims of a shared life. It is also beneficial for applicants to include documentation of significant milestones in the relationship, such as travel itineraries from trips taken together, evidence of joint activities, and invitations to family events, as these all highlight the emotional and social aspects of the relationship. In addition, applicants from inside Canada will need to demonstrate they live at the same address by providing copies of IDs, Driver’s Licenses, Utility Bills/shared credit cards/Phone Bills/Tax Returns with both names.

Ultimately, a thorough and thoughtful presentation of relationship evidence is crucial in the spousal sponsorship process. Rather than simply providing documentation, applicants should frame their submissions to tell the story of their relationship, illustrating the depth of their connection. A well-prepared application can significantly enhance the chances of approval, as it reassures immigration officials of the sincerity and legitimacy of the partnership.