asking for a friend, im asking in many forums actually..

my friend is separated from her husband for 6 years already, but with no legal documents, separation/anullment has not been filed. they've just decided to call it quits on their own. now she plans to migrate to canada, (or USA, australia) just anywhere to start a new life. she's wondering if she should apply as single or as married, considering she has no documents regarding the latter..

anybody have any ideas? or possibly have gone through this situation?