Filing a spousal sponsorship application to reunite with your spouse or common-law partner in Canada is one of the most meaningful immigration steps a person can take. However, mistakes in the application are more common than many realize. These errors can range from minor clerical issues to serious problems that could harm the chances of approval.
In this article, we explain what applicants should do if they discover errors in their sponsorship application and how to handle these issues with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Common Mistakes in Spousal Sponsorship Applications
- Sponsor Eligibility Issues
- The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident over the age of 18.
- Previous criminal convictions, prior undertakings, or financial obligations can disqualify you from sponsoring a spouse.
- Applicant Eligibility Problems
- The sponsored spouse may face inadmissibility issues, such as prior convictions, removal orders, or past visa refusals.
- Officers carefully review the bona fide nature of the marriage, especially when there is a history of refusals.
- Incomplete or Pending Divorce
- If a sponsor’s prior divorce is not finalized, marrying again and filing a sponsorship application can cause major legal problems.
- Form Errors and Missing Information
- Minor mistakes such as incorrect immigration status, wrong dates, or incomplete sections can lead to delays or requests for additional documents.
What To Do If You Find Mistakes
The good news is that many errors are curable if addressed quickly and honestly. Here’s how:
- Submit a Web Form Correction: If the mistake is in the forms or information provided, contact IRCC through their official web form. Clearly explain the error and provide the correct information.
- Be Proactive: Don’t wait for IRCC to issue a procedural fairness letter. Correcting mistakes upfront shows good faith and can prevent bigger issues.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If the mistake relates to eligibility or admissibility, it is wise to consult an experienced immigration lawyer to avoid long-term consequences.
Real-World Example
NPZ Law Group assisted an applicant who noticed errors in their spousal sponsorship application. By promptly contacting IRCC and correcting the mistakes, the application was approved — a result that may not have been possible if the errors were left unaddressed.
Key Takeaway
Mistakes happen, but ignoring them can jeopardize your sponsorship application. Always:
- Double-check your eligibility as a sponsor.
- Confirm your spouse’s eligibility before filing.
- Ensure all prior divorces are finalized.
- Correct errors immediately and be upfront with IRCC.
Being proactive is the best way to protect your application and increase the chances of approval.
For personalized guidance, contact NPZ Law Group at 201-670-0006
Learn more at www.visaserve.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I fix mistakes in my Canada spousal sponsorship application after submitting it?
A: Yes. Many errors can be corrected by contacting IRCC through their web form with the correct information.
Q: What if my mistake affects my eligibility as a sponsor?
A: Eligibility issues are more serious. If you are not eligible due to prior undertakings, convictions, or financial issues, your application may be refused. Legal advice is strongly recommended.
Q: Will IRCC reject my application if I made a small error?
A: Minor mistakes may only cause delays or requests for clarification, especially if you proactively correct them.
Q: Can a pending divorce affect my sponsorship application?
A: Yes. If your divorce is not finalized, you cannot legally marry again or sponsor a new spouse.
Q: What if my spouse had past visa refusals?
A: IRCC will scrutinize the genuineness of the marriage more closely, but refusals do not automatically mean the sponsorship will fail.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.