When it comes to Canadian marriage visas, one of the most common questions couples ask is: “How long do we have to be together before applying?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, as Canada doesn’t set a specific minimum duration for being in a relationship—but that doesn’t mean time doesn’t matter.
In this article, we’ll break down what Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) really looks for in a marriage or common-law application, how relationship length plays a role, and what you need to do to prove that your partnership is genuine and eligible—regardless of how long you’ve been together.
1. No Minimum Duration Required by Law
Canada does not require a minimum amount of time that a couple must be together before applying for spousal sponsorship. Whether you’ve been together for 6 months or 6 years, what matters most is the genuineness of the relationship.
But there are differences depending on the type of relationship:
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Marriage: No time requirement if legally married.
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Common-law: Must have lived together at least 12 consecutive months in a marriage-like relationship.
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Conjugal partner: Requires at least 1 year of committed relationship with barriers preventing cohabitation or marriage.
2. Short Relationships Are Scrutinized More Closely
Although the law doesn’t require a specific length, short-term relationships—especially those less than 1 year—are often reviewed with greater suspicion.
IRCC officers will look more closely at:
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The circumstances of how you met
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How quickly the relationship progressed
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Whether there’s a history of visits, communication, and integration into each other’s lives
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Any red flags, like age gaps, cultural barriers, or rushed marriages
3. Proving a Genuine Relationship Is What Matters Most
Whether you’ve been together 6 months or 6 years, IRCC will expect strong evidence that your relationship is real, committed, and not for immigration purposes.
You’ll need to submit:
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A relationship narrative or letter explaining your story
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Photos together over time and in different settings
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Proof of communication (chats, calls, emails)
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Shared finances, housing, or life plans
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Affidavits from family or friends who know your relationship
The longer and more serious your relationship, the easier it may be to provide this kind of documentation—but even short relationships can be approved with the right evidence.
4. How IRCC Assesses “Genuine” Relationships
IRCC uses several factors to assess the authenticity of your relationship, including:
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Development of the relationship: How did it begin and grow?
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Mutual knowledge: Do you know each other’s family, history, and lifestyle?
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Shared responsibilities: Do you make decisions together and support one another?
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Public recognition: Do friends and family know about your relationship?
Length of relationship is only one element of this broader evaluation.
5. Married Less Than 2 Years? You May Face Conditions
If your spouse becomes a permanent resident and the relationship is less than 2 years old with no children in common, the PR status may be conditional.
That means the couple must live together in a genuine relationship for at least 2 years after arrival. If the relationship ends prematurely and is deemed fraudulent, the sponsored spouse’s PR status may be revoked.
Note: This rule does not apply in cases of abuse or neglect.
6. Tips for Couples in Shorter Relationships
If you haven’t been together very long, you can still succeed in your application—but you need to prepare carefully.
Do this:
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Document your relationship from day one (screenshots, receipts, travel tickets)
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Visit each other as often as possible and keep records
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Involve family and friends in the relationship
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Provide a detailed explanation of your intentions, future plans, and commitment
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Be transparent in your interview if one is requested
7. What About Online Relationships or Long-Distance Couples?
Online-only or long-distance relationships are not typically accepted for marriage sponsorship unless:
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You have met in person at least once
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You are legally married (and have documentation)
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You have plans to reunite and live together
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You meet the definition of a conjugal partner (for rare exceptions)
IRCC prioritizes in-person interaction and evidence of living a real relationship, not just digital communication.
8. Common Misconceptions About Relationship Length
❌ We need to be married for two years before applying – False
✅ You can apply anytime after legally marrying.
❌ Living apart means we’re ineligible – False
✅ Long-distance couples can apply with the right evidence.
❌ A short marriage will be rejected automatically – False
✅ Many short-term relationships are approved when well documented.
9. How to Strengthen Your Case Regardless of Length
Even if your relationship is new, you can increase your chances of approval with:
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Consistent, high-quality documentation
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Honest and detailed application forms
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Letters from friends/family explaining how they view your relationship
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Proof of plans for your life together in Canada (housing, jobs, travel, finances)
10. Should You Wait Longer Before Applying?
There’s no perfect answer. Some couples choose to wait longer to strengthen their case—but if you’re married and have solid evidence, there’s no legal reason to delay.
Ask yourself:
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Do we have enough documentation?
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Are we prepared for a possible interview?
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Are we confident in the authenticity of our case?
If yes, you’re likely ready to proceed.
Final Thoughts
The Canadian government does not require a set amount of time for you to be together before applying for a marriage visa—but the strength of your application depends heavily on how well you can prove your relationship is real, committed, and built on trust.
Whether you’ve been together for a few months or several years, focus on transparency, documentation, and preparation. Time alone doesn’t guarantee approval—but building a clear, well-supported case will always increase your chances.