Getting married is a joy, and if your partner is a Canadian citizen, you may be looking forward to starting a new life together in Canada. Marrying a Canadian citizen can also be a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. However, marrying a Canadian citizen is not just about a wedding ceremony; it also comes with the challenge of relocating and securing accommodation.
In this post, we will walk you through the legal process of how to get married to a Canadian citizen and secure your accommodation before relocating. You will also get to learn about the immigration process and how to apply.
Is It Possible To Marry A Canadian Citizen As A Foreigner
Yes, marrying a Canadian citizen and securing accommodation before relocating requires following the legal marriage requirements in Canada, completing the spousal sponsorship application, and carefully planning your housing needs.
Is A Foreign Marriage Valid In Canada?
If you are marrying a Canadian citizen abroad, your marriage will be recognized in Canada as long as it is legally valid in the country where it took place. However, when applying for spousal sponsorship, you may need to provide legal documentation proving that the marriage is valid under the laws of that country.
Understanding Marriage Laws In Canada
To get married in Canada, you will need to meet certain legal requirements which involve proving your identity and that you are both single and of legal age to get married. Also, you will need to prove that your relationship is genuine and not based solely on immigration purposes.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in Canada
In Canada, the basic legal requirements for marriage are consistent, though certain specifics may change slightly by province or territory. To get married in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: The legal age to marry in Canada is 18 years old. Some provinces and regions, allow marriage at 16 or 17 with parental consent.
- Consent: Both parties must freely consent to the marriage. This means that neither person can be under any kind of pressure or force to marry.
- Single Status: You must be legally free to marry. This means that if you have been previously married, you must provide proof of divorce or annulment. If your previous spouse passed away, you will need to provide the death certificate.
- Marriage License: A valid marriage license is required in most provinces before a marriage can be legally performed. You can apply for a marriage license at a local city hall or government office.
- Witnesses: Most marriages in Canada require at least two witnesses to sign the marriage certificate, attesting that the marriage took place.
- Residency: While there is no specific residency requirement for getting married in Canada, you might be required to provide proof of identity and address.
Types of Marriages Recognized in Canada
Canada recognizes both civil and religious marriages, as long as they meet the legal standards of the province or territory.
- Civil Marriages: This is the most common type of marriage in Canada, performed by a government-appointed official, such as a marriage commissioner or justice of the peace. It is available to all couples, regardless of religious affiliation.
- Religious Marriages: Religious marriages are performed by recognized religious leaders, such as priests, rabbis, or imams. However, religious marriages must be recognized by the government to be legally valid.
- Same-Gender Marriage: Same-gender marriage has been legal in Canada since 2005. This means that same-gender couples have the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual couples.
Marriage Ceremonies
Marriage ceremonies in Canada can be held in various places, which include:
- Courthouse: Civil ceremonies are often performed in courthouses.
- Religious institutions: Religious ceremonies can be held in churches, synagogues, mosques, or other places of worship.
- Other locations: With proper authorization, marriages can also be held in other locations, such as parks, gardens, or private residences.
The Process Of Marrying A Canadian Citizen
Marrying a Canadian citizen requires meeting legal requirements and following specific steps to make sure the marriage is valid. Here is a brief guide:
Eligibility for Foreign Spouses:
- Free to Marry: Both parties must be legally single (or divorced/widowed).
- Legal Age: You must meet the minimum age requirement (usually 18+).
- No Impediments: No close relation or legal barriers to marriage.
Documents Needed:
- Valid ID: Passport or government-issued ID for both parties.
- Single Status Proof: Foreigners from other countries will need to provide a certificate proving they are free to marry.
- Marriage License: You will be required to get it from the local authority before the wedding.
- Divorce/Death Certificate: If previously married, you will need to provide proof of legal termination (Divorce).
Steps to Marry:
- Marriage License: Apply for a marriage license in the province/territory where the marriage will happen.
- Plan the Ceremony: Choose the type of marriage you want be it a civil or religious wedding with an authorized officiant.
- Have Witnesses: You will need to provide at least two witnesses who must attend and sign the marriage certificate.
- Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, request your official marriage documents.
Sponsorship Through Marriage
Sponsorship through marriage is a common route for individuals to immigrate to Canada and reunite with their spouses. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can sponsor your foreign spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to come to Canada.
Eligibility for Sponsorship
To sponsor your spouse, you must meet these criteria:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident: Only citizens or Permanent Residency holders can sponsor.
- At least 18 years old: Sponsors must be adults.
- Financial Responsibility: You must agree to support your spouse financially for three years after they gain permanent residency.
- No Prior Sponsorship Issues: You must not have defaulted on previous sponsorship agreements or committed serious crimes.
Eligibility for the Sponsored Spouse
The spouse being sponsored must:
- Be legally married: The marriage must be recognized in the country where it took place and meet Canadian legal standards.
- Medical and Background Checks: The spouse must pass a medical exam and background check to enter Canada.
Types of Sponsorship
- Inland Sponsorship: For spouses already living in Canada. Allows the spouse to stay while the application is processed and possibly apply for a work permit.
- Outland Sponsorship: For spouses living outside Canada. The application is processed through their home country, and they must wait abroad during processing.
Steps in the Sponsorship Process
- Submit the Application: Gather and complete forms for both the sponsor and the spouse. This includes proof of relationship, identity documents, and legal marriage certification.
- Processing: The application typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the case and the country of origin.
- Approval and Residency: Once approved, the spouse gains permanent residency and can live and work in Canada.
Steps To Secure Accommodation Before Relocating
Finding suitable accommodation is one of the biggest challenges when moving to a new country, planning ahead is important so that you can have a place to stay once you arrive in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps to help you secure a place to live:
- Research the Housing Market: Look into the housing options in your destination, including neighborhoods, rental prices, and availability.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford for rent, utilities, and other living expenses.
- Use Online Platforms: Explore websites like Craigslist, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace to find rental listings. Contact landlords directly for inquiries.
- Seek Temporary Housing: Consider booking short-term stays (Airbnb, hostels) while searching for permanent accommodation.
- Reach Out to Real Estate Agents: Work with local agents who can help you find a rental that suits your needs.
- Verify the Lease: Review the lease terms carefully before signing, and make sure you understand your rights and obligations.
- Prepare for Move-in Costs: Budget for a security deposit, first month’s rent, and potential utility setup fees.
Different Types Of Housing In Canada For Newcomers
When immigrating to Canada, there are different types of housing options available to suit different needs and budgets. Here is a brief overview of the most common housing types for newcomers:
1. Apartments
- Description: Self-contained units in a building with multiple floors.
- Ideal for: Individuals, couples, or small families looking for affordable rental options.
- Cost: Rent varies by city and building amenities.
2. Condominiums (Condos)
- Description: Privately owned units in a shared building, often with added amenities (e.g., gyms, pools).
- Ideal for: Those looking for more upscale living or ownership.
- Cost: Higher than apartments due to extra amenities and maintenance fees.
3. Townhouses
- Description: Multi-floor homes sharing walls with neighboring units.
- Ideal for: Families needing more space but still looking for affordable rental or ownership options.
- Cost: Mid-range, typically more than apartments but less than standalone homes.
4. Detached Houses
- Description: Standalone houses with private yards and no shared walls.
- Ideal for: Larger families or individuals looking for privacy and space.
- Cost: Higher cost for rent or purchase, especially in urban areas.
5. Shared Accommodation
- Description: Renting a room in a house or apartment shared with others.
- Ideal for: Students or single newcomers on a budget.
- Cost: Lower than renting a full apartment or house.
6. Co-op Housing
- Description: Non-profit housing where tenants share the responsibilities of managing the building.
- Ideal for: Newcomers looking for affordable and community-based living.
- Cost: More affordable, but availability can be limited.
7. Short-term Rentals
- Description: Temporary housing options like Airbnb or furnished apartments.
- Ideal for: Newcomers who need temporary accommodation while finding permanent housing.
- Cost: Varies, often more expensive for short stays.
Benefits Of Marrying A Canadian Citizen
Marrying a Canadian citizen can offer several advantages, including:
- Spousal Sponsorship: You can apply for permanent residency through Canada’s spousal sponsorship program, allowing you to live and work in Canada.
- Work Opportunities: You may be eligible for an open work permit, enabling you to work in any job while your permanent residency is processed.
- Healthcare Access: As a permanent resident, you can access Canada’s universal healthcare system and receive good medical services.
- Path to Citizenship: After living in Canada for a few years as a permanent resident, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
- Social Benefits: You gain access to social benefits, such as public education and pensions, just like other permanent residents.
Conclusion
Marrying a Canadian citizen could be a dream come through, but it’s important to approach the process with realistic expectations. This post on how to get married to a Canadian citizen and secure your accommodation before relocating will help you understand all that is required to help you make a successful move.