Faqs

A legally married spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner may be sponsored if the relationship is genuine and was not entered into mainly to gain Permanent Residence.

The sponsored person must generally be at least 18 and meet Canada’s admissibility requirements, including medical, security, and criminality checks.

Yes. A sponsor may be ineligible if they are still financially responsible for a previous spouse they sponsored, were themselves sponsored as a spouse less than five years ago, have failed to meet a previous sponsorship undertaking, are are receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability, or have certain criminal convictions. We review these factors during your assessment.

Outland sponsorship (Family Class) is generally used when the spouse lives outside Canada. Inland sponsorship (Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class) is for spouses already living with the sponsor in Canada. The streams differ in travel flexibility, work permit options, and appeal rights, so the right choice depends on your circumstances.

Applications require IRCC forms and supporting documents such as identity and civil-status documents, relationship evidence, photos, police certificates, and background information. Requirements vary by circumstance and country of residence. Complete and consistent information is essential.

Useful evidence can include communication records, photos together over time, travel records, wedding details, and proof of shared finances or a shared home. The right evidence depends on your relationship and circumstances.

In most cases, no. There is usually no minimum income requirement to sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.

Processing times depend on the application stream, your application’s completeness, security and background checks, the government’s workload, and how quickly applicants respond to requests. IRCC publishes current estimates on its website, but times are not guaranteed.

In certain cases, a spouse or partner living in Canada who is included in a permanent residence sponsorship application may qualify for an open work permit. Eligibility rules apply and change from time to time. We confirm current requirements for your situation.

U.S. citizens do not usually need a visa to visit Canada, but a pending sponsorship application does not guarantee entry. Border officers must be satisfied that the visit is temporary. We can advise on travel during processing.

The government reviews your application and may request more information or documents. Applicants may need to give biometrics, complete a medical exam, or attend an interview. We will help you watch for government messages and to respond within the deadlines given.

The sponsor signs an undertaking to financially support the sponsored spouse’s basic needs, generally for three years from the date the spouse becomes a permanent resident. It stays in effect even if the relationship ends or circumstances change.

You may apply on your own. Many couples choose a licensed consultant to reduce the risk of errors, delays, or refusals, and to have expert support if the government raises questions. Only licensed Immigration Consultants and lawyers may charge fees for immigration advice.