To obtain a Canada Marriage Visa, also known as a Spousal Sponsorship Visa, you need to follow a specific process. Here are the key steps:
1. Eligibility Requirements
– Sponsor Eligibility: The Canadian spouse or common-law partner must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and able to prove they can financially support the spouse being sponsored.
– Relationship Proof: You must provide evidence of a genuine relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, photos, communication records, etc.).
– Sponsored Person Eligibility: The spouse being sponsored must be legally married to the sponsor or in a common-law relationship for at least one year.
2. Application Process
– Step 1: Gather Documents
– Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship.
– Proof of sponsor’s Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
– Police clearance certificates and medical exams for the sponsored spouse.
– Proof of financial support (e.g., employment letters, tax documents).
– *Step 2: Complete Forms
– The sponsor completes the *Sponsorship Application.
– The sponsored spouse completes the *Permanent Residence Application.
– Step 3: Pay Fees
– Sponsorship fee, processing fee, and right of permanent residence fee (total approximately CAD $1,080 as of 2023).
– Step 4: Submit Application
– Send the completed application package to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
3. Processing Time
– Processing times vary but typically take *12-24 months*, depending on the complexity of the case and the country of origin of the sponsored spouse.
4. After Submission
– Biometrics and Medical Exam*: The sponsored spouse may need to provide biometrics and undergo a medical exam.
– Interview: In some cases, IRCC may request an interview to verify the relationship.
– Decision: If approved, the sponsored spouse will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can travel to Canada.
5. Conditions
– The sponsored spouse must live with the sponsor in Canada for at least two years to maintain permanent residency.
– The sponsor is financially responsible for the spouse for three years, even if the relationship ends.
6. Alternative Options
– If the spouse is already in Canada, they may apply for an *Open Work Permit* while waiting for the sponsorship application to be processed.
– If not married, consider a *Common-Law Partner Sponsorship* if you have lived together for at least one year.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official IRCC website: [https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html).
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