Spousal Visa
Spousal Visa Lawyers in Canada & Nigeria – Reunite with Your Partner Legally
Love knows no borders—but immigration law does. If you’re looking to bring your husband, wife, or common-law partner to live with you in Canada or Nigeria, you’ll need to apply for a Spousal Visa. This process can be legally complex, emotionally draining, and full of strict requirements.
At Gigera Law Services, we make the process easier. Whether you’re a permanent resident sponsoring your partner to join you in Canada or a Nigerian looking to formalize residency for your partner—we provide complete legal support every step of the way.
What Is a Spousal Visa?
A Spousal Visa (also called a Partner Visa or Marriage Visa in some jurisdictions) allows the legally recognized partner of a citizen or permanent resident to immigrate for the purpose of family reunification.
It is one of the most emotionally significant immigration pathways—and one of the most scrutinized. Immigration officers assess not only your documentation, but also the genuineness of your relationship, financial sponsorship capability, and long-term intent.
Types of Relationships Eligible for Spousal Visas:
- Legally married couples
- Common-law or civil partners
- Same-sex spouses (recognized in Canada)
- Religious or customary marriages (recognized in Nigeria and some Canada cases)
What We Help You With
Spousal Visa Applications & Sponsorship Filing
Common-law or Civil Partnership Recognition
Preparing Genuine Relationship Evidence
Interview Preparation and Documentation Review
Visa Refusals, Reapplications & Appeals
Sponsorship Undertaking & Affidavits of Support
Application for Dependent Children (if applicable)
Spousal Visa Extensions or Status Restoration
Permanent Residency After Entry on a Spousal Visa
Spousal Visa Requirements by Country
Canada
Canada’s spousal sponsorship program is governed by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and processed through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
✅ Key Requirements:
Sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Valid and legal relationship (marriage certificate or common-law status)
Sponsor must prove financial ability and not be on social assistance
Both partners must pass admissibility (no criminal or medical bars)
Proof of genuine relationship (photos, communication, cohabitation, shared finances)
✅ How We Help:
Prepare a complete Spousal Sponsorship Package (inland or outland)
Draft clear and convincing relationship narrative & evidence
Address prior visa refusals or overstays
Help with Open Work Permit applications for inland spouses
Transition from spousal visa to Permanent Residency
Nigeria
Nigeria offers spousal visas through the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) for foreign nationals married to Nigerian citizens. The spouse can apply for Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa and later apply for residency regularization.
✅ Key Requirements:
Proof of legal marriage (court or customary)
Letter of invitation and sponsor’s status
Financial documents and support guarantee
Police clearance and medical reports
Evidence of cohabitation or intent to live in Nigeria
✅ How We Help:
Guide foreign spouses through STR Visa process
Draft affidavits of support, invitations, and declarations
Ensure compliance with Nigerian legal and customary marriage recognition
Assist with residency permit conversion and renewals
Handle mixed-nationality or dual citizenship complications
Why Legal Help Is Crucial for Spousal Visa Cases
Avoid Incomplete Applications & Delays
Even small errors can cause refusals. We ensure every box is checked.Strengthen Proof of Relationship
Immigration officers look closely at relationship legitimacy. We help present your story with clarity and credibility.Support After Arrival
From work permits to permanent residence, we offer continuous support even after your partner arrives.Appeals & Reapplications
If your application is refused, we act fast to appeal or file a stronger reapplication.
Our Process – How We Help You Reunite with Your Partner
Consultation & Eligibility Assessment
We determine your relationship type, sponsorship status, and best country-specific path.Document Collection & Relationship Proof
We guide you in assembling the right evidence and legal documents.Application Preparation & Review
We complete and file all government forms with detailed, clear documentation.Monitoring & Representation
We track the application, respond to immigration authorities, and prepare you for any interviews.Appeals & Extensions
If needed, we pursue appeals or help with post-visa transitions to permanent residency.
Why Choose Gigera Law Services for Spousal Visa Applications?
Culturally Sensitive, Relationship-Focused Legal Advice
High Success Rate in Complex and Refused Cases
Licensed in Canada and Nigeria
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends. Some exceptions exist (e.g., disability benefits in the UK). We can assess and build your case with supporting documentation.
Processing times vary:
- Canada: 8–12 months
- UK: 2–6 months
- Nigeria: 2–3 months depending on consular location
Yes, in Canada and the UK. You’ll need proof of cohabitation and shared life for 12 months or more.
We help file appeals, judicial reviews, or fresh applications with stronger evidence.
- Canada: Yes, through an Open Work Permit
- UK: Yes, full work rights
- Nigeria: Employment may require additional permits; we’ll guide you