The Canadian spousal sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to invite their spouse or partner to Canada and obtain permanent residence. The Government of Canada recognises the importance of keeping families together, which is why spousal sponsorship applications are given high priority.
Below is a comprehensive guide on sponsoring your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada.
Sponsor Your Spouse to Canada
The spousal sponsorship program is a key part of Canada’s immigration system, enabling Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence. The program aims to reunite families and allow loved ones to live together in Canada.
Types of Eligible Relationships:
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Spouse: The sponsored person is legally married to the sponsor.
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Common-law Partner: The sponsor and sponsored person have lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least one continuous year.
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Conjugal Partner: The sponsor and sponsored person have been in a genuine and continuous relationship for at least one year, but cannot live together or marry due to cultural, religious, or political barriers.
Each relationship type has its own eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for Canadian immigration.
Sponsorship Classes: In Canada vs. Outside Canada
1. Family Class (Outland)
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For individuals living outside Canada, or
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For individuals in Canada with a sponsor but not intending to remain for the entire application process.
In this case, the sponsored person may apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to remain in Canada while the application is processed.
2. Inland Sponsorship (In Canada)
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For individuals living with the sponsor in Canada, or
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For individuals who currently hold or previously held a valid immigration status in Canada.
In this case, it is advised that the sponsored person avoid leaving Canada during the application process.
Processing Times for Spousal Sponsorship
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Standard processing time: approximately 12 months, but it can vary depending on whether the application is Inland or Outland and the province of residence.
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In Quebec, processing can take up to 25 months.
Other factors affecting processing time include: completeness of the application, additional information requests from immigration authorities, and police or medical checks.
Government Fees for Spousal Sponsorship
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Sponsorship fee: $85
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Principal applicant processing fee: $545
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Right of permanent residence fee: $575
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Total: $1,205
Additional fee for dependent children: $175 per child
Biometrics fee: $85 per person (valid for 10 years)
In Quebec, applicants must also obtain a CSQ (Quebec Selection Certificate) and pay associated fees.
Sponsor Requirements
To be eligible to sponsor, you must:
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Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
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Be at least 18 years old
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Be able to provide for the basic financial needs of your spouse or partner for three years
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Live in Canada (or, if abroad, intend to reside in Canada once your spouse receives permanent residence)
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Do not rely on social assistance
Required Documents for Sponsorship
From the Sponsor:
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Sponsorship application forms
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Proof of payment of fees
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Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence
From the Sponsored Person:
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Permanent residence application forms
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Identity and passport documents
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Proof of legal status in Canada (if applicable)
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Marriage, birth certificates, police clearance, medical certificates, and a digital photo
Shared Documents:
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Relationship and sponsorship evaluation forms
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Proof of dissolution of previous relationships (if applicable)
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Evidence that the relationship is genuine (joint property, lease agreements, joint bank accounts, shared bills, photos, messages, letters)
Reasons a Sponsorship Application May Be Refused
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Incomplete or incorrect documentation
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Failure to meet the sponsor eligibility
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Misrepresentation or fraud
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Insufficient financial resources
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Failure to prove a genuine relationship
Frequently Asked Questions
Does marrying a Canadian automatically grant permanent residence?
No. Marriage only allows you to apply for sponsorship. Permanent residence is granted after approval of the sponsorship application.
Can I sponsor my partner without being married?
Yes, if you can provide evidence of a common-law or conjugal relationship.
Is English or French proficiency required?
No, language proficiency is not required.
How long is the sponsor financially responsible?
Three years from the day the sponsored person receives permanent residence.
Can an unemployed sponsor apply?
Yes, though the sponsor must demonstrate the ability to provide basic needs for the spouse or partner.
Spousal Sponsorship in Quebec
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Quebec has unique procedures and requirements
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CSQ (Quebec Selection Certificate) and associated fees are required
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Consulting an immigration lawyer is highly recommended
By following the eligibility requirements, providing complete documentation, and consulting with professionals, the chances of successfully sponsoring a spouse or partner to Canada are significantly increased.