Spousal Sponsorship in Canada: Reunite with Your Loved One
Canada values family reunification, and the Spousal Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or partner for permanent residency. If you want to bring your loved one to Canada, this program provides a clear pathway for them to live, work, and build a future with you.
What is the Spousal Sponsorship Program?
The Spousal Sponsorship program is part of Canada’s Family Class immigration category. It enables eligible Canadians and permanent residents to sponsor their:
- Spouse (legally married partner)
- Common-law partner (living together for at least 12 consecutive months)
- Conjugal partner (in a committed relationship for at least one year but unable to live together due to immigration barriers)
Once approved, the sponsored spouse or partner receives permanent residence, granting them the right to live and work in Canada.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship
- Inland Sponsorship:
- For spouses or partners already living in Canada.
- The sponsored person may be eligible for an Open Work Permit while waiting for PR approval.
- Both partners must live together in Canada during processing.
- Outland Sponsorship:
- For spouses or partners living outside Canada.
- The application is processed through the visa office in their home country.
- The sponsored person can visit Canada while the application is being processed, but approval is not guaranteed.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
To be eligible to sponsor your spouse or partner, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits).
- Be financially responsible for your spouse for three years after they become a permanent resident.
- Prove that your relationship is genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.
Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsored Person
The person being sponsored must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass medical, security, and background checks.
- Provide evidence of the genuine nature of the relationship (e.g., photos, communication records, joint financial documents, etc.).
How Long Does Spousal Sponsorship Take?
Processing times vary, but most applications take approximately 12 months to process. Inland applications with an Open Work Permit request may take longer due to additional processing.
Benefits of Spousal Sponsorship
- No minimum income requirement for sponsors.
- Open Work Permit option for inland applicants.
- A direct pathway to permanent residency and family reunification.
Start Your Spousal Sponsorship Application with CIP Immigration!
Sponsoring a spouse or partner can be a complex process, and mistakes can lead to delays or refusals. At CIP Immigration, we specialize in ensuring that your application is complete and meets all requirements.
Let us help you bring your loved one to Canada! Contact us today to start your Spousal Sponsorship application and reunite with your partner.