How to Sponsor a Spouse From Bangladesh

Have you found yourself captivated by the charms of a Bangladeshi citizen, with an overwhelming desire to embark on the journey of marriage together? The Canadian Family Class Sponsorship program welcomes individuals seeking to sponsor their spouses or common-law partners, dependent children, as well as parents and grandparents. However, navigating the intricate process of spousal immigration sponsorship requires the expertise of an immigration lawyer to ensure a smooth and successful experience.

Embracing Matrimony with a Bangladeshi Citizen

The union between Bangladeshi citizens and foreigners, as well as between two foreigners, falls under the jurisdiction of the Special Marriage Act of 1872. Since its enactment in April 2012, all "Certificate of Marriage" documents issued by City Corporation and simple affidavits executed before the Magistrate Court or Notary Public have been rendered null and void.

To establish the authenticity of your marriage, it is essential to obtain a legally registered marriage certificate in compliance with the Special Marriage Act. This certificate serves as tangible proof of your commitment and enables you to apply for a visa, change your maiden name, and obtain a passport reflecting your married status.

According to the provisions of the act, the groom must be at least 21 years old, while the bride must have reached the age of 18 or above. Before the marriage can be solemnized under the act, a written notice must be submitted to the Registrar, as specified in the 1st schedule of the act, at least 14 days prior to the registration of the marriage. The ceremony takes place before the Registrar, with three witnesses required to sign the Marriage Certificate and the Declaration.

Before entering into marriage, it is imperative to satisfy the requirements set forth by the Bangladeshi authorities. This includes proving that you are not currently married, and if you have been married before, that all previous divorces have been finalized. Additionally, you must provide evidence of your identity and demonstrate a clean criminal record in the country. Various documents, such as an Affidavit of Single Status, are necessary to substantiate these claims. You may seek assistance from the Bangladeshi Embassy in Canada or Bangladesh itself to facilitate this process.

Bring Your Spouse to Canada


Here's how we can help you:

  • Formulate a strategy based on your particular circumstances.
  • Collect and review supporting documentation to sufficiently establish the genuineness of your relationship.
  • Prepare you and your spouse or partner for any requested interviews.
  • Provide expert legal submissions in support of your application.
  • Communicate with the immigration authorities on your behalf to ensure you don’t miss anything, which could lead to significant delays.

If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer for spousal sponsorship, Matthew Jeffery has over 20 years of experience and specializes in handling spousal sponsorships with high success rates. To see if you qualify for spousal sponsorship, fill out our FREE Sponsorship Assessment form.

Sponsoring Your Beloved Bangladeshi Spouse

Once you have legally tied the knot with your Bangladeshi spouse or partner, you can initiate the sponsorship application for permanent resident status. Once the requirements for permanent residency have been met, your Bangladeshi spouse can subsequently apply for Canadian citizenship, culminating in a truly fulfilling journey.

It is important to note that while the sponsorship application is being processed, your spouse can visit you by obtaining a visitor visa, allowing your love to flourish despite the administrative procedures.

Marriage to a Bangladeshi Citizen Outside of Bangladesh

In cases where the marriage ceremony takes place outside of Bangladesh, it is crucial to ensure that the marriage is recognized and valid in both Bangladesh and Canada. This ensures the seamless continuation of your marital bond across borders.

The Blessing of Dependent Children with Your Bangladeshi Spouse

If you and your Bangladeshi spouse are blessed with children who meet the criteria for Canadian permanent resident status, rest assured that their presence does not impact the marriage requirements. Love knows no boundaries, and the union of hearts transcends the complexities of immigration regulations.

The Validity of the Bangladeshi Marriage Document

Once the Bangladeshi Marriage document is issued, it remains valid for a period of 6 months. Within this timeframe, it is vital to consummate your marriage with your beloved partner. Should the wedding be delayed beyond this period, reapplication will be necessary to ensure compliance.

At the Law Office of Matthew Jeffery, we specialize in navigating the intricacies of spousal sponsorship immigration and provide comprehensive assistance for various immigration matters. Reach out to us at 416-944-3267 to schedule a complimentary assessment of your spousal sponsorship case, as we embark on this extraordinary journey together.

FAQ: Sponsoring a Spouse from Bangladesh