Spousal Sponsorship in Canada

Confirm Your Eligibility as a Sponsor

Status in Canada
You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident living in Canada, or a person registered under the Canadian Indian Act.

Financial Standing
Show you have the financial means to support your sponsored spouse or partner. There is no strict income requirement for spousal sponsorship, but you must not be receiving social assistance (except for disability) and must not have outstanding sponsorship undertakings from previous cases.

No Serious Criminal Convictions
Having certain criminal convictions may prevent you from sponsoring.

Not in Default of Previous Sponsorship Undertakings
You must have fulfilled any previous sponsorship commitments (if relevant).

Understand the Relationship Categories

Spouse
Legally married to the sponsor.

Common-Law Partner
Living together in a marital-type relationship for at least 12 consecutive months.

Conjugal Partner
In a significant relationship for at least one year, but unable to live together due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., immigration barriers or other legal restrictions).

Choose the Right Sponsorship Process: Inland vs. Outland

Inland Sponsorship

    • The sponsored person is already in Canada with valid temporary status (visitor, student, or worker).
    • They may be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit while the sponsorship application is in process.
    • Both sponsor and sponsored person should remain in Canada during processing.

Outland Sponsorship

      • The sponsored person usually resides outside Canada.
      • The application is processed through the visa office covering their country of nationality or residence.
      • The sponsored individual can still visit Canada (if they have the proper documentation), but the main application is processed from abroad.

Gather the Required Documents

Typical documents and evidence include:

Proof of Sponsor’s Status in Canada
A copy of your Canadian passport, PR card, or citizenship certificate.

Proof of Relationship

    • Marriage certificate (for spouses)
    • Lease agreements, joint bills, photos, communication logs (for common-law partners)
    • Evidence of a committed relationship (for conjugal partners)

Identity Documents
Valid passport or travel document for the sponsored person; birth certificates (if applicable).

Police Certificates
Required from each country where the sponsored person (and any dependent children 18 or older) has lived for more than six months since turning 18.

Medical Exam
The sponsored person must undergo an immigration medical examination by an approved panel physician, either before submission (upfront) or when IRCC requests it.

Additional Supporting Evidence
Photos, written statements from friends/family, proof of joint finances, and anything else proving the genuineness of the relationship.

Complete the Application Forms

IRCC provides an application package that includes all necessary forms for both the sponsor and the sponsored person. Commonly required forms include:

  • Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344)
  • Sponsorship Evaluation and Relationship Questionnaire (IMM 5532)
  • Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
  • Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
  • Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)

Use the most recent versions from the IRCC website and follow any region-specific document checklists.

Pay the Required Fees

Fees typically include:

Processing Fee
Covers the sponsor and the sponsored person.

Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
Can be paid upfront or later, though paying it upfront may speed up the final steps.

Biometrics Fee
If required.

Remember to keep your payment receipts to include with the application.

Submit Your Application

Organize Your Documents
Follow the order outlined in IRCC’s document checklist.

Attach Payment Receipts
Include all fee receipts in the package.

Mail or Courier
Send the complete application to the address specified by IRCC (this may differ based on inland vs. outland applications).

Provide Biometrics (If Required)

IRCC may request that the sponsored spouse or partner provide fingerprints and a photo at a designated location.

The biometrics fee is paid with the application if it applies to your case.

Wait for Processing and Updates

Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
IRCC will send an AOR confirming they received your application, including a file number.

Application Review
Officers will review the forms, documents, and background checks. IRCC may request additional documents or clarifications.

Open Work Permit (Inland)
If applying inland, the sponsored person may request an Open Work Permit, processed alongside the sponsorship.

Communication with IRCC
Keep your contact details updated and respond quickly to any IRCC requests.

Final Decision and Landing

Passport Request (Outland)
IRCC may request the sponsored person’s passport for visa issuance if the application is approved.

Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Once approved, the sponsored individual will receive a COPR.

Landing in Canada

For inland sponsorship, the sponsored person may attend a landing interview at an IRCC office.

For outland sponsorship, the sponsored person will be granted permanent resident status at the Canadian port of entry.

After Receiving Permanent Residence

Obtain a PR Card
The new permanent resident will usually receive it by mail if in Canada.

Maintain Residency Obligations
The sponsored person must remain in Canada for at least two years within any five-year period to retain PR status.

Healthcare and Social Benefits
Eligibility for provincial health care and other benefits may begin after receiving permanent residence (timing and requirements vary by province).

Important Reminders

Keep Copies
Always keep copies of all forms and supporting documents you submit.

Use the IRCC Checklist
Requirements may differ based on country of residence. Confirm details in IRCC’s region-specific checklist.

Processing Times
Timelines can change. Check the current estimates on IRCC’s website.

Consider Professional Help
If your case is complex (e.g., past refusals, missing documents, or criminal records), consult a regulated immigration consultant or an immigration lawyer.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. Immigration rules can change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official IRCC website or consult a qualified immigration professional.

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