Your trusted Canadian immigration partner

Family sponsorship from India: marriage, birth and adoption documents

IRCC’s New Delhi family class instructions explain which Indian civil documents to send. A late-registered birth needs extra proof such as school certificates and the voter ID card, and adoptions need a no objection letter from CARA.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated:


Check sponsorship eligibility

At a glance

Late-registered birthAdd old school records (fifth class, middle standard, matriculation) and voter ID cardSource: IRCC: New Delhi visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3029)
Marriage proofMarriage certificate, or other proof such as an old ration card and voter ID cardSource: IRCC: New Delhi visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3029)
Adopted childrenLetter of no objection from the Central Adoption Resource Agency (CARA)Source: IRCC: New Delhi visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3029)
TranslationsNotarized (certified) translation with a copy of the originalSource: IRCC: New Delhi visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3029)
Government fees (spouse)CAD 1,260 including right of permanent residence fee (about INR 85,400)Source: IRCC: Fee list

What civil documents do I need from India for family sponsorship?

IRCC’s New Delhi family class instructions ask for a birth or baptism certificate for each applicant, a marriage certificate if married, birth certificates for children showing the parents’ names, and original police certificates from every country where each adult lived 6 months or more since age 18.

What if a birth in India was registered late?

Include other documents that establish identity. The New Delhi instructions list old school records (fifth class, middle standard and matriculation certificates) and the voter ID card. Records made close to the birth carry more weight than documents made just before applying.

What proof of marriage does IRCC accept from India?

A marriage certificate. The New Delhi instructions also list other proof, such as an old ration card and voter ID card. For a spouse sponsorship, add evidence the relationship is genuine: wedding photos, proof of contact over time and visits.

For arranged marriages, explain how the families were introduced. Be consistent: IRCC compares what you and your spouse write.

How do I sponsor an adopted child from India?

The New Delhi instructions require a letter of no objection from the Central Adoption Resource Agency (CARA), Ministry of Women and Child Development. International adoptions also need written approval from the authorities of the child’s home and the Canadian province, confirming Hague Convention rules were met.

What if I am divorced or separated and bringing my children?

Include proof that you have custody, that you have met all custody obligations, and that the children may move to Canada. A court document concerning custody is part of the identity and civil status list.

Family sponsorship from India: FAQ

The New Delhi instructions list affidavits among the evidence for common-law couples, alongside joint bank accounts and a joint lease or property deed.
The New Delhi instructions ask for originals of immigration forms and police certificates, and photocopies of other documents unless told otherwise.
Only if they are already in Canada with valid status and meet IRCC’s conditions for the spousal open work permit. A spouse still in India cannot get it.

Get your family sponsorship file checked before you apply

Tell us where you are in the process. A member of our team will tell you what is missing or weak in your India application, before IRCC does.

We only use your details to reply to you. No spam.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.