A recent viral social media claim has highlighted concerns about individuals allegedly using fake same-sex marriages to obtain permanent residency in Canada through spousal sponsorship. The claim originated from a video posted on Instagram by a Canadian influencer, suggesting that such arrangements are increasing, particularly in Ontario.
According to the claim, some people are staging these relationships to take advantage of the spousal sponsorship pathway, which focuses on proving a genuine bond rather than points-based criteria like education or language skills. Same-sex marriages have been legally recognized in Canada since 2005 and are processed the same way as opposite-sex marriages by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
This development has drawn attention to how fraud can impact the immigration process, especially as reports mention fabricated evidence being used to support applications.
How the Alleged Scam Operates
The described method involves one partner who is already a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and another who is a temporary resident, such as an international student or worker, nearing the end of their visa.
These individuals reportedly enter into a staged same-sex marriage or common-law relationship. They then submit a spousal sponsorship application supported by created proof, including photos, chat records, and shared rent agreements.
Some accounts suggest that these arrangements often involve people from similar ethnic or cultural backgrounds. Underground facilitators allegedly arrange such deals for fees between $20,000 and $50,000.
Another variation includes roommates or friends who have lived together claiming common-law partner status after 12 months of cohabitation, even without a romantic connection, to qualify for sponsorship.
The perception mentioned in the claim is that same-sex relationships might face less detailed examination due to concerns about sensitivity toward LGBTQ+ issues.
Requirements for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
Canada’s spousal sponsorship program allows citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner. The main condition is that the relationship must be genuine.
Here are the primary eligibility details:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Must be 18+, Canadian citizen or PR |
| Sponsor Residence | Must reside in Canada (PRs apply from inside Canada) |
| Sponsor Financial | Not receiving social assistance (except for disability) |
| Sponsor Record | No serious criminal record or previous sponsorship violations |
| Sponsored Person | Must be 18+ |
| Marriage | Must be legally valid |
| Common-law | 12 months of continuous cohabitation |
| Conjugal | One-year bond without cohabitation (due to barriers) |
Applicants must provide evidence of a shared life, such as joint bills, communication records, and photos. Both parties may face background checks and separate interviews.
IRCC treats same-sex and opposite-sex relationships equally under the rules.
Potential Issues Raised by the Claims
Several challenges arise from reports of fraudulent spousal applications.
Fraud can delay processing for all applicants, with typical spousal sponsorship times ranging from 12 to 18 months.
Genuine same-sex couples might encounter increased examination if such claims lead to broader suspicion.
Public confidence in the immigration system depends on fair application of rules, and reports of scams can affect perceptions.
Some suggest that officers might approach same-sex cases cautiously to avoid appearing insensitive, potentially creating opportunities for false claims.
Marriage fraud has occurred in the past, often involving arrangements from various countries. A previous policy requiring couples to live together for two years after approval was introduced in the 2010s but removed in 2017.
Methods Used by IRCC to Detect Fraud
IRCC employs several tools to identify non-genuine relationships.
Officers conduct interviews asking specific questions about daily life, such as how the couple met or routine habits.
They review submitted documents, including bills, leases, social media activity, and message histories for consistency.
Advanced systems help flag unusual patterns, like repeated sponsorships or timeline inconsistencies.
If fraud is confirmed, consequences include a five-year ban on future applications, fines up to $100,000, and possible jail time of up to five years for those involved.
Legitimate couples, especially from backgrounds where open LGBTQ+ relationships carry risks, may have limited public proof, which can sometimes complicate verification.
Summary of the Reported Development
A viral Instagram video from a Canadian influencer has alleged that fake same-sex marriages are being used to secure permanent residency through spousal sponsorship, mainly in Ontario.
The claims describe staged relationships with fabricated proof, targeting a pathway that requires demonstrating a real bond.
This matters because spousal sponsorship relies on authenticity, and fraud affects processing times and trust in the system.
Readers should note that IRCC applies the same rules to all relationships, uses multiple detection methods, and imposes strict penalties for misrepresentation, while genuine applicants must provide honest evidence of their partnership.