Do I need to register my marriage concluded in Ukraine?

Many Ukrainian couples who have emigrated to Canada are faced with the question of whether they need to re-register their marriage, which was performed in Ukraine. A correct understanding of this issue affects not only immigration status and social benefits, but also the legal protection of one of the spouses in case of emergencies.

1. Legal recognition of foreign marriages in Canada

1.1 Convention and legislation

Canada does not have a single federal marriage registry; instead, each province or territory is responsible for registering civil status records, including marriages. The actual marriage takes place only once — in Ukraine. After immigration, the spouses do not enter into a “Canadian marriage” again: a Ukrainian marriage is recognized as legal in all provinces and territories of Canada, provided that Ukrainian legislation has been complied with.

1.2 Grounds for non-recognition

A marriage contracted in Ukraine may not be recognized in Canada only under certain circumstances:

  • If it was contracted in a form that is contrary to Canadian law (e.g., polygamy).

  • If the spouses were closely related beyond the permissible degree of kinship.

  • If the certificate is found to be forged or obtained by fraud.

In the absence of these violations, a Ukrainian marriage is recognized as completely legitimate.

2. Confirmation of marriage: translation and legalization of documents

2.1 Translation of a marriage certificate

All documents written in Ukrainian must be translated into English or French in Canada. Translation:

  1. Performed by a certified translator (member of ATIA, CTTIC, etc.).
  2. Contains the translator's official certification and signature with the date.

2.2 Notarization

  • If necessary for official procedures (car registration, opening a bank account), the translation must be notarized.
  • The notary verifies the translator's credentials and certifies the authenticity of the signature.

2.3 Apostille

Canada does not recognize apostilles, but a notarized translation with a notary's seal is sufficient. The original marriage certificate with an apostille from Ukraine is accepted without additional apostille in Canada.

3. Use of Ukrainian certificates in immigration processes

3.1 Submission to IRCC

  • In joint immigration proceedings (family sponsorship, economic class), spouses submit a Ukrainian certificate with a translation and notarization.
  • IRCC verifies the authenticity of the documents and may sometimes request additional evidence (photographs from the ceremony, joint photos, letters confirming cohabitation).

3.2 Confirmation of cohabitation

  • For spousal immigration, it is necessary to prove that the marriage is valid and ongoing.
  • Additional evidence:
  • joint bank accounts
  • rental agreements in both names
  • joint utility bills
  • health insurance policies listing both names

4. Use of marriage certificates in provincial and civil proceedings

4.1 Name change

  • If you change your last name after marriage, you must apply to the relevant provincial authority (Service Alberta, ServiceOntario) with an application and your Ukrainian certificate.
  • You must submit the original certificate and a notarized translation.

4.2 Social and tax benefits

  • Right to joint tax filing (married filing status)
  • Joint insurance coverage (Medication Plan, health benefits)
  • Access to spousal benefits and credits (GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit)

4.3 Inheritance and succession

  • In the absence of a will, spouses are automatically recognized as each other's heirs under provincial law.
  • The Ukrainian certificate is proof of legal marriage for such procedures.

5. Features of provincial legislation

5.1 Alberta

  • Submit a Ukrainian certificate to Alberta Registries to change your surname and update your property rights.
  • Have the translation certified by Service Alberta.

5.2 Ontario

  • ServiceOntario accepts the original + a notarized translation.
  • There is an online option for updating your driver's license and health card.

5.3 British Columbia

  • Vital Statistics Agency BC accepts marriage certificates with translation without apostille.
  • Provides an online request for a certificate of cohabitation for social services.

5.4 Quebec

  • Marriage certificates must be translated into French by a qualified translator.
  • Registration with the Directeur de l'état civil after legalization of documents.

6. Strategies for ensuring legal recognition

  1. Translation and notarization – Always have your documents translated by a certified translator and notarized.

  2. Gathering additional evidence – Photographs, joint financial documents, testimonials from friends and relatives.

  3. Updating your name and documents – Upon arrival in Canada, immediately change all official documents to avoid confusion.

  4. Consulting with a lawyer – In complex or non-standard cases, consult with a family law specialist.

A Ukrainian marriage is recognized as valid in Canada provided that it was legally concluded in Ukraine. However, without a properly executed translation and notarization, documents may be rejected by provincial authorities, banks, or immigration services. Use the tips in this article to ensure continuous recognition of your marital status, simplify bureaucratic procedures as much as possible, and obtain all associated rights and benefits in Canada.