This process falls under Canada’s Family Sponsorship Program and allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence in Canada. It enables partners living abroad to reunite and build their lives together in Canada. The program is designed to preserve family unity and contribute to a strong and cohesive Canadian society. Under Canadian immigration law, a spouse, common-law partner, and conjugal partner are recognized as three distinct and eligible partner categories.
Eligibility Requirements for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
To qualify for spousal sponsorship in Canada, both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse or partner must meet specific eligibility conditions set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Canadian Citizenship & Sponsorship Eligibility Criteria
When applying for spousal sponsorship, the following requirements must be met:
Spousal Sponsorship Timeline
The spousal sponsorship process begins with preparing and submitting a complete application package. This includes all required forms, marriage certificates, photographs, and supporting documents. Providing accurate and complete information is essential to prevent delays or refusal of the application.
Once your application is submitted, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue an Acknowledgement of Receipt confirming that your application has been received and is under review. During this stage, IRCC may request additional documents. Applicants are advised to regularly check their online account and email for updates or correspondence from IRCC.
After receiving the acknowledgement, medical instructions will be issued. The sponsored spouse must complete a medical examination with an IRCC-approved panel physician. The medical results are sent directly to IRCC to ensure the applicant meets Canada’s health requirements and poses no risk to public health or safety.
Once all required documents are received and the medical examination is completed, IRCC proceeds with a detailed assessment. This includes verifying the genuineness of the relationship, conducting background and security checks, and confirming the eligibility of both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse. If the application is approved, the sponsored spouse will be granted permanent resident status in Canada.
Application Forms Required for Canadian Spousal Sponsorship
To apply for spousal sponsorship in Canada, the principal applicant must complete and submit the required application forms along with all supporting documents. Some of the commonly required forms include:
Processing Time for Spousal Sponsorship
The processing time for spousal sponsorship applications in Canada may vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the need for additional verification or documentation, and whether the application is submitted under the inland or outside Canada spousal sponsorship program. In general, processing times range between 12 to 18 months. It is important to note that processing begins from the date IRCC receives the complete application package. Any missing documents or inconsistencies may result in delays.
Spousal Sponsorship Application Fees
Applying for spousal sponsorship in Canada involves specific government fees for processing and assessment. The current fees include:
Frequently Asked Questions
