Who Needs Form IMM5409E: Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union?
Form IMM5409E is for couples in a common-law relationship who are applying together for immigration to Canada—for example, through a family sponsorship, permanent residence, or visa application.
If you’re applying as a common-law partner (not legally married), you’ll use this form to declare your relationship officially. It’s required when:
- You’ve been living together in a conjugal (marriage-like) relationship for at least 12 consecutive months, and
- You want to prove your relationship to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as part of your application.
What Is Form IMM5409E: Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union?
Form IMM5409E is a legal declaration that confirms your common-law relationship under Canadian immigration rules. It helps IRCC understand your family situation and decide if you meet the requirements for certain programs, such as:
- Family sponsorship,
- Express Entry,
- Spousal or partner applications under various streams.
The form includes information such as:
- Your names, birthdates, and contact information,
- The date your common-law relationship began,
- A statement confirming that you’ve been living together for at least 12 months,
- Details about your shared life (e.g., joint leases, bills, or financial accounts).
It must be signed by both partners and witnessed by a commissioner of oaths, notary public, or lawyer.
Where Is This Declaration Submitted?
Form IMM5409E is submitted to IRCC as part of your immigration application package. You’ll include it with your other forms, supporting documents, and evidence of your relationship—such as photos, joint accounts, and shared bills.
It’s a critical document that helps IRCC assess your eligibility for family sponsorship or other immigration pathways based on your relationship.
Why You Need a Notarized Declaration of Common-Law Union
Form IMM5409E is a statutory declaration, meaning it must be signed in front of a notary public, commissioner of oaths, or lawyer to be valid.
Notarizing the form confirms that:
- The information you’ve provided is true,
- You understand your legal responsibility in making the declaration,
- The document has legal weight in your immigration file.
Without notarization, IRCC may not accept your form, which could delay or even deny your application.
How to Complete and Notarize Form IMM5409E
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete Form IMM5409E:
- Fill in your names, birthdates, and contact details at the top of the form.
- Provide details about your relationship:
- The date you began living together,
- Where you’ve been living as a couple,
- Any previous marriages or relationships.
- Describe shared responsibilities: Like shared bills, rent, bank accounts, or other evidence of a shared life.
- Both partners must sign the form.
- Have the form sworn or affirmed in front of a notary public, commissioner of oaths, or lawyer. Bring valid ID with you.
- Submit the completed, notarized form with your immigration application to IRCC.
Final Note
Form IMM5409E: Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union is an essential document for Canadian immigration applications. It confirms your relationship and supports your case for sponsorship, permanent residence, or other programs.
By filling out the form carefully, having it properly notarized, and submitting it with strong supporting evidence, you help ensure your application is complete, credible, and ready for review.
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