Spousal and Common-Law Sponsorship Lawyer

Reuniting with a spouse or common-law partner is one of the most significant immigration pathways available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. The firm provides legal representation for couples seeking permanent residence through Inland or Outland sponsorship, including cases involving previous refusals, complex histories, or evidentiary concerns. This page is intended for individuals seeking legal representation, not general immigration information.

Overview

Spousal and common-law sponsorship is a permanent residence pathway for couples seeking to live together in Canada. It applies to legally married couples or partners who have lived together in a committed relationship for at least twelve months. Officers assess the genuineness of the relationship, the sponsor’s eligibility, and the couple’s intention to reside together in Canada.

Sponsorship is appropriate where:

• the sponsor is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• the couple is legally married or meets the common-law definition
• the relationship is genuine and ongoing
• both parties are admissible to Canada
• the couple intends to reside together in Canada after approval

Applicants may pursue Inland or Outland processing depending on their residency and travel needs.

Who This Service Is For

Legal representation is appropriate for:

• Cases where the couple resides in different countries
• Canadian citizens and permanent residents sponsoring a spouse or common-law partner
• Couples choosing Inland or Outland processing
• Couples who require strategic advice on eligibility, documentary evidence, or timelines
• Files involving previous refusals or procedural fairness concerns
• Couples with limited cohabitation evidence or non-traditional relationship histories
• Applications involving children from prior relationships

Legal Representation Provided

The firm provides comprehensive legal representation for spousal and common-law sponsorships, including:

Eligibility and Strategy

• Determining whether Inland or Outland processing is more appropriate
• Advising on residency obligations, work permit options, and travel considerations
• Identifying potential concerns early to reduce risk of refusal

Evidence and Documentation

• Advising on the quality and sufficiency of relationship evidence
• Preparing affidavits or statutory declarations when required
• Ensuring that documentary proof meets IRCC expectations and officer guidelines

Application Preparation

• Preparation and review of all forms, supporting documents, and relationship evidence
• Legal submissions addressing the couple’s history, genuineness, and intent to reside together
• Guidance on police clearances, medical examinations, and biometrics requirements

Complex Situations

Legal representation is often essential when applications involve:

• Prior refusals
• Inconsistencies in history or documentation
• Long-distance relationships
• Short periods of cohabitation
• Cultural or religious obstacles
• Previous divorces or custody matters
• Sponsor eligibility concerns
• Misrepresentation findings in past applications

The firm provides legal analysis and submissions tailored to the circumstances of the couple.

When to Seek Legal Assistance

It is advisable to retain legal counsel when:

• The couple has received a previous refusal
• There are concerns about genuineness or insufficient relationship evidence
• The sponsor or applicant has a complex history, including prior immigration issues
• There are children from previous relationships requiring custody documentation
• The couple anticipates procedural fairness issues
• There are gaps in communication, cohabitation, or contact evidence
• Either party has spent long periods outside Canada
• Income, employment, or residency circumstances require explanation