1. Understand Why You’ve Been Called for an Interview
Not all applicants are interviewed. If you’ve been invited, it may be for reasons such as:
- Short duration of relationship before marriage
- Lack of time spent living together
- Inconsistent or incomplete documentation
- Previous immigration history concerns
- Cultural or language differences that may require additional clarification
Knowing the possible concerns will help you prepare for questions that target those areas.
2. Be Familiar with Your Application
Both the sponsor and the applicant should review the application thoroughly, including:
- Dates of important events (first meeting, engagement, wedding, etc.)
- Photos submitted and stories behind them
- Travel history
- Communication logs
- Any previous marriages or children
Any discrepancies or confusion about details can raise doubts, so be consistent with what you’ve already submitted.
3. Practice Common Interview Questions
Here are examples of typical questions:
About the Relationship:
- How did you meet?
- When did the relationship become serious?
- Who proposed, and how?
- Describe your wedding ceremony.
Daily Life:
- What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?
- What time does your spouse usually wake up?
- What is your spouse’s favourite food or hobby?
Family and Friends:
- Have you met each other’s families?
- How do your families feel about the relationship?
- What do you do together on holidays or special occasions?
Communication:
- How do you stay in touch when apart?
- How often do you talk or message each other?
Practice answering these out loud—preferably together. It’s not about memorizing answers, but about becoming comfortable telling your shared story clearly and confidently.
4. Be Honest and Consistent
If you don’t know or remember an answer, it’s better to say so honestly rather than guessing. Inconsistent or overly rehearsed answers between spouses can raise red flags. It’s natural for couples to remember things differently or forget small details—what matters is that the overall picture of the relationship feels real and consistent.
5. Bring Supporting Documents (If Allowed)
Some interviews allow you to bring updated or additional evidence, such as:
- New photos together
- Recent chat logs or phone records
- Proof of shared finances or cohabitation
- Cards or letters exchanged Check your interview notice carefully for instructions on what to bring.
6. Dress and Act Professionally
Dress neatly and respectfully, as you would for any official appointment. Be polite and calm during the interview. Avoid being defensive or argumentative, even if a question feels intrusive or repetitive. The officer is doing their job; your task is to demonstrate your sincerity through your answers and attitude.
7. Prepare for a Separate Interview
In some cases, the sponsor and applicant are interviewed separately and then their answers are compared. This is called a “Stokes interview” in some countries, though not commonly by that name in Canada. Be prepared to answer independently and honestly.
8. After the Interview: Stay Calm
Sometimes you’ll receive a decision shortly after the interview, but often it can take weeks or months. Don’t panic if the officer doesn’t reveal anything right away. Continue to keep records of your ongoing communication and relationship in case further information is requested.
