Canadian citizenship by marriage

Canadian citizenship by marriage is not an automatic process. Marriage to a Canadian citizen does not grant immediate Canadian citizenship to the spouse. However, it can provide a pathway to Canadian citizenship through the process of spousal sponsorship.

How to get citizenship by marriage in Canada

Canadian citizenship by marriage is not an automatic process. Marriage to a Canadian citizen does not grant immediate Canadian citizenship to the spouse. However, it can provide a pathway to Canadian citizenship through the process of spousal sponsorship. Here’s some information about Canadian citizenship by marriage:

1. Spousal Sponsorship. The spousal sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for Canadian permanent residence. Once the sponsored spouse obtains permanent residence, they can eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.
2. Eligibility Requirements. To sponsor a spouse for Canadian permanent residency, the sponsoring Canadian citizen or permanent resident must fulfill certain eligibility requirements, including being at least 18 years old, residing in Canada, and proving financial means to support the spouse. The sponsored spouse must also meet admissibility requirements, including medical and security checks.
3. Permanent Residence. Once the sponsored spouse is approved for permanent residence, they typically receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa. They can live and work in Canada as permanent residents and enjoy most of the same rights and advantages as Canadian citizens.
4. Path to Canadian Citizenship. After becoming a permanent resident, the sponsored spouse must fulfill certain residency requirements to be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. Generally, they must have physically resided in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) out of the five years preceding their citizenship application.
5. Citizenship Application. Once the residency requirements are met, the sponsored spouse can apply for Canadian citizenship through the regular citizenship application process. This includes completing the application form, providing supporting documents, and passing the citizenship test, which assesses knowledge of Canadian history, values, and rights.

Documentation and Application

When applying for Canadian citizenship through marriage, you will generally need to provide the following documentation:

1. Application Form. Complete the appropriate application form provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The specific form will depend on whether you are sponsoring your spouse for permanent residence or applying for citizenship.
2. Proof of Identity. Include copies of identifying papers, such as passports, birth certificates, or national identity cards, for both you and your spouse.
3. Marriage Certificate. Provide a copy of your marriage certificate or proof of your common-law relationship to demonstrate your marital status.
4. Proof of Relationship. Submit documents that show the genuineness of your relationship, such as photographs together, joint bank account statements, or correspondence.
5. Financial Documentation. Demonstrate that you have the financial means to support your spouse during the sponsorship process by providing financial statements, employment letters, or tax documents.
6. Police Certificates. Obtain police certificates or clearance letters from each country or region where you and your spouse have lived for a certain period of time.
7. Medical Examination. Your spouse may need to undergo a medical examination by a designated panel physician to ensure they meet health requirements.
8. Language Proficiency. Provide evidence of language proficiency if required for the citizenship application, such as language test results or completion of language courses.

Dual Nationality

Canada recognizes and allows dual nationality, also known as dual citizenship. This means that individuals can hold Canadian citizenship alongside citizenship of another country.