How does IRCC decide whether my marriage or relationship is genuine?

Genuineness of the relationship is one of IRCC's central concerns in spousal sponsorship. Officers look at whether the relationship is genuine — that is, that it was not entered into primarily to secure immigration status. They assess this based on the totality of evidence.

Useful evidence includes: how you met and the history of your relationship, proof of ongoing communication (call logs, messages, emails), photos together over time, evidence of visits, knowledge of each other's families and daily lives, wedding or ceremony documentation, joint financial arrangements, and statutory declarations from family and friends. If you married quickly after a short courtship, if there is a large age gap, if there is no shared language, or if previous immigration refusals are in the file, IRCC may apply additional scrutiny.

An interview may be requested, either of the sponsor in Canada or of the sponsored spouse abroad, to assess whether both parties have consistent knowledge of each other. Inconsistencies in interviews are a leading cause of refusals. Prepare thoroughly, organize your evidence chronologically, and consider consulting an immigration lawyer to review your file before submission.