Can I sponsor my spouse if we are not legally married?

Yes, Canada recognizes common-law and conjugal relationships for sponsorship purposes. You must prove you have lived together continuously for at least 12 months and share financial or emotional ties. Evidence such as joint bank accounts, rental agreements, photographs, and communication records strengthens your application. The relationship must be genuine and not entered into solely for immigration purposes. Providing truthful documentation ensures faster approval and fewer verification issues during processing.