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Family sponsorship from Pakistan: marriage and civil documents

IRCC’s Islamabad instructions set strict rules for Pakistani civil documents. A marriage must be shown with a Nikah Nama that carries the Nikah registry seal, and affidavits are not accepted in place of marriage, divorce, death or custody documents.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated:


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At a glance

Marriage proofNikah Nama with the Nikah registry seal, registered with the union councilSource: IRCC: Islamabad visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3020)
AffidavitsNot accepted for Pakistani nationals to prove marriage, divorce, death or custodySource: IRCC: Islamabad visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3020)
Identity documentCNIC copy for each Pakistani applicantSource: IRCC: Islamabad visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3020)
Extra form for Pakistani nationalsSupplementary Information Form for Pakistani NationalsSource: IRCC: Islamabad visa office instructions, family class (IMM 3020)
Government fees (spouse)CAD 1,260 including right of permanent residence fee (about PKR 246,600)Source: IRCC: Fee list

What marriage documents are needed to sponsor a spouse from Pakistan?

IRCC’s Islamabad instructions ask for the Nikah Nama bearing the Nikah registry seal as proof the marriage is registered with the union council or relevant authority. This applies to marriages in person or by proxy. Ahmadis provide the Nikah form and the final marriage certificate; non-Muslims provide the certificate from the registering authority.

Many couples also include the NADRA computerised marriage registration certificate, but the sealed Nikah Nama is the document IRCC names.

Documents in Urdu need a certified English or French translation.

Can I use an affidavit if a Pakistani document is missing?

No. For Pakistani nationals, IRCC’s Islamabad instructions say affidavits are not acceptable to establish marriage, divorce, death or custody. Civil documents must name the applicant and be issued by the authority in the district where the event happened.

What if my spouse or I was divorced before?

Divorces obtained in Pakistan must be shown with a divorce certificate from the union council or relevant authority, with all documents from the divorce proceedings. IRCC warns that certificates not in line with the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961 may lead to delay or refusal.

How do we prove the relationship is genuine?

Marriage documents alone are not enough. Include photos from the wedding and after, 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.

Can I sponsor my child from Pakistan?

Yes, a dependent child can be included or sponsored. If a parent is divorced or separated, IRCC asks for proof of custody from a court, and a signed consent from the other parent if they have parental rights.

Family sponsorship from Pakistan: FAQ

IRCC’s Islamabad instructions name the Nikah Nama with the Nikah registry seal. Submit that, and add the NADRA certificate as supporting evidence.
IRCC accepts a birth certificate if the birth was registered shortly after it happened. A late registration may need supporting documents such as school records.
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 Pakistan cannot get it.

Official sources

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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.