Every year, over 80,000 family class immigrants become permanent residents through Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to live and work in Canada permanently.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the spousal sponsorship process, including eligibility requirements, financial responsibilities, and application steps.
Who Can Sponsor Their Spouse or Partner in Canada?
To sponsor your spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner, you must meet these requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act
- Live in Canada (or intend to return after your partner becomes a PR)
- Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits)
- Be financially stable and willing to support your partner
If you are a Canadian citizen living abroad, you must provide proof of your intention to return to Canada once your partner receives PR.
Financial Requirements for Spousal Sponsorship
Unlike other immigration streams, there is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship. However, sponsors must:
- Prove financial stability and the ability to support their spouse
- Not be bankrupt or receiving government income support
- Sign an undertaking committing to financially support their partner for three years after PR approval
Financial Responsibilities of a Sponsor
A sponsor is responsible for covering their partner’s basic needs, including:
- Housing (rent, utilities)
- Food and daily essentials
- Clothing and personal expenses
- Medical expenses not covered by public health insurance (such as dental and vision care)
Who Can Be Sponsored Under the Spousal Sponsorship Program?
Your relationship must fall under one of the following categories:
Spouse
- You are legally married to your partner
- Your marriage is valid in both Canada and the country where it was registered
Common-Law Partner
- You have lived together for at least 12 consecutive months in a marriage-like relationship
- You must provide proof of shared residence, such as lease agreements, utility bills, or joint bank accounts
Conjugal Partner
- You have been in a continuous and committed relationship for at least 12 months
- Immigration, cultural, or legal barriers prevent you from living together (e.g., same-sex relationships not recognized in your partner’s country)
The person being sponsored must be at least 18 years old and pass background, security, and medical checks.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
Couples can choose between two main sponsorship options, depending on where the sponsored partner lives.
Outland Sponsorship (For Spouses Living Outside Canada)
- Best for spouses living outside Canada
- Application is processed at an IRCC visa office in the applicant’s home country
- The sponsored spouse can visit Canada during the application process (if eligible for a visa)
- Processing time: Approximately 12 months
Inland Sponsorship (For Spouses Living in Canada)
- Best for spouses already in Canada on a work, study, or visitor visa
- The couple must live together while the application is processed
- The sponsored spouse can apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) to work while waiting for PR
- Processing time: 12 months or more
Conjugal partners must apply through Outland Sponsorship.
How to Apply for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
The spousal sponsorship process involves four key steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Application
- Decide whether to apply under Inland or Outland Sponsorship
- Gather proof of your relationship, such as:
- Marriage certificate (for spouses)
- Joint financial documents (bank statements, lease agreements, utility bills)
- Photos and messages showing your relationship history
- Inland applicants should apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) at the same time
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Apply through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Pay the required application fees:
- Sponsorship fee: $75 CAD
- Processing fee: $490 CAD
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $515 CAD
- Biometrics fee (if required): $85 CAD
Step 3: IRCC Processing & Background Checks
- IRCC reviews the application and may request additional documents
- The sponsored spouse must pass:
- Medical exam (to ensure they do not have serious health conditions)
- Security screening (background and police checks)
Step 4: Receive Approval & Permanent Residency
- If approved, the sponsored partner receives Canadian PR
- Inland applicants with an Open Work Permit can continue working in Canada
Processing Time for Spousal Sponsorship
- Average processing time: 12 months
- Complex cases (e.g., missing documents, additional security checks) may take longer
Why Choose Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program?
- Faster Family Reunification – No need to wait years to be together
- No Minimum Income Requirement – Unlike other sponsorship programs
- Work While Waiting – Inland applicants can get an Open Work Permit
- Inclusive Policies – Recognizing spouses, common-law, and conjugal partners
Start Your Sponsorship Journey Today
Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program is one of the most straightforward ways to bring your partner to Canada. Whether applying under Inland or Outland sponsorship, preparing a complete and well-documented application will ensure a smooth and timely approval.
Golden Eagle Immigrations can help you navigate the sponsorship process. Contact us today for expert guidance and a free consultation.