How to show “proof of relationship” to IRCC

Proof of Relationship is one of the most common requirements for family sponsorships, partner visas, or certain residency applications in Canada. Canadian immigration authorities require a range of documents to confirm that relationships like marriage, common-law partnerships, or family bonds are real and ongoing.

This article offers a detailed guide on what “proof of relationship” means for Canada immigration, why it’s required, and the steps to genuinely prove “proof of relationship”.

Why Canada Requires Proof of Relationship

Proof of relationship is essential to prevent fraud and misuse of the immigration system, making sure that visas and residency are given to those with real and meaningful connections.

If you’re sponsoring a spouse, partner, or close family member, presenting strong proof of your relationship is a critical part of your application to make your application stronger.

Types of Relationships That Require Proof for Canada Immigration

1. Spousal Sponsorship (Married Couples):  IRCC may require documents to verify that the marriage is genuine and ongoing.
2. Common-Law Partnerships: Couples who have lived together for at least one year may be required to show cohabitation and shared responsibilities for proof of relationship.
3. Conjugal Partners: Conjugal partner sponsorship is an option for partners who are unable to live together due to barriers, such as legal restrictions or immigration limitations.
4. Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship: when sponsoring parents or grandparents proof of relationship may require show familial ties and genuine commitment to family support.
5. Siblings Relationship: IRCC gives additional points for siblings who are permanent residents of Canada to those who are in the Express entry pool. These additional 15 points help increase the chances of getting an invitation for permanent residency.

Proof of Relationship to claim 15 points Express Entry

To claim 15 points for having a sibling in Canada under Express Entry, provide:

1. Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates for you and your sibling showing a common parent. You can also include family photos and pictures.
2. Proof of Sibling’s Status in Canada: Copy of your sibling’s Canadian passport or PR card.
3. Proof of Sibling’s Residence in Canada: Recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease showing your sibling’s Canadian address.

Documents for Proving Relationship to Canada Immigration

Canada immigration requires specific documents for each relationship type. Here are common documents that help prove a relationship’s authenticity:

1. Marriage Certificate or Common-Law Declaration:

• For spouses, a marriage certificate is essential.
• For common-law partners, a declaration of common-law status may be needed, which can be filled out and signed before a commissioner of oaths.

2. Joint Financial Documents:

• Joint Bank Account Statements: Showing shared accounts demonstrates a financial bond.
• Mortgage or Lease Agreements: If you own property together or share a rental, these documents show cohabitation.
• Shared Loans or Insurance Policies: Loans or policies with both names are greater ways to show a serious commitment and shared responsibilities of partners.

3. Proof of Shared Residence:

• Rental Agreements and Utility Bills: These documents are another great method to show both names at the same address to confirm cohabitation.
• Official Mail to Same Address: Tax documents, government correspondence, or other official letters of the same address are other ways to show your commitment.

4. Travel and Communication History:

• Photos Together: Photos from different points in time, especially from important events (like family gatherings, holidays, or special occasions), can help prove a serious ongoing relation with your partner.
• Travel Tickets and Hotel Reservations: If you’ve traveled together, shared tickets or bookings can help prove your time together.
• Passport Stamps: For long-distance relationships, showing visits through passport stamps can demonstrate commitment.
• Text, Chat, or Email Screenshots: Regular communication history can help prove that your relationship is serious and genuine.

5. Statements from Family or Friends:

• Affidavits: You can use written statements from family members, friends, or others who know both parties and can confirm the relationship’s legitimacy can be very helpful. Affidavits must be signed and notarized in Canada.

6. Social Media and Digital Proof:

• Joint Social Media Posts: Social media photos or posts tagging each other over time provide a digital timeline of the relationship and can be a great way of proving a genuine relationship.
• Shared Digital Subscriptions: While not a solid proof, shared subscriptions (like Netflix or Spotify) can demonstrate a shared life.

Additional Tips for a Successful Proof of Relationship Submission

1. Be Truthful and Consistent: Always provide honest, accurate information. Make sure you don’t include anything you’re not confident about.
2. Include a Relationship Timeline: For complex cases, creating a short timeline of your relationship (key dates, travel, cohabitation periods) can help immigration officials understand the relationship history in short. Social Media posts and chats are greater examples to prove this.
3. Prepare for Possible Interviews: In some cases, immigration may request an interview with both partners. Make sure you answer each and every question honestly, any attempt to match answers knowingly can impact the decision.
4. Get Help if Needed: For complex or unique cases, consider consulting an immigration lawyer or a consultant.
5. Submit Clear Copies: Canada immigration requires clear, readable copies of all documents. Ensure any translations are certified if documents are in a language other than English or French.

Specific Document Requirements for Canada

Canada’s immigration system has specific forms and requirements:

1. Common-Law Partner Declaration Form (IMM 5409): This form must be completed if you’re applying as common-law partners. It confirms that you’ve lived together for at least one year.
2. Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation (IMM 5532): This form asks for information about the relationship’s history, your day-to-day lives, and how you plan to continue your lives together in Canada.
3. Use of a Representative (IMM 5476): If you’re using a lawyer or immigration consultant, this form is required to authorize them to represent you.

Make sure you download the latest versions of these forms from the official IRCC website, as outdated forms can cause delays or issues with your application.

Conclusion

Proving a relationship to Canadian immigration requires careful planning, clear documentation, and genuine evidence.

You should start collecting and organizing any financial records, housing documents, communication history, photos, and personal statements, that could prove the authenticity of your relationship. Being honest is the key to achieving genuine relations proof.