In December 2016, it was announced that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will process maximum spouse sponsorships within a year’s time frame. This decision was taken in order to low down the application processing times. This was because on an average, spousal sponsorship applications took 18 months outside Canada, and minimum 24 months in Canada.
Below are some of the main factors which have resulted in spousal sponsorship becoming faster and more effective.
New Application forms
Along with this new processing commitment, the IRCC has also introduced new application forms, which will be valid at all visa offices.
Another significant change which makes the procedure faster is that the relationship questionnaire has fewer questions. Even the application guide is simplified so that applicants understand everything better and procedures take place fast.
Proof of Relationship
Any proof which determines the genuineness of a relationship, whether you are married, common-law partners or conjugal partners should be provided by the applicant. If any additional proof is demanded by the authorities, there are new limitations for the same. One of it is that you can only submit 20 photographs taken at different times and places. Similarly, only 10 pages of letters, messages or emails are accepted as a supporting proof for your relationship.
You will also need to submit police certificates from the country where you are currently living in, and the country where you have spent most of your adult life since reaching the age of 18.
In spousal , the legitimacy of the relationship is the key for acceptance of the application. The Spousal Sponsorship Program was designed in a way that it doesn’t matter where you get married as long as your marriage is legally recognized in that country and in Canada.
Updates regarding procedure
The way you receive updates regarding your application has also changed. Once you submit your application, you will receive notifications regarding the further procedure through emails. If there is any requirement for more documents, you will be notified about the same.
