Spousal Sponsorship Canada: Everything You Need to Know
Table of Contents
What Is Spousal Sponsorship?
Eligibility Requirements
Who Can Be Sponsored
Types of Sponsorship: Inland vs. Outland
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Processing Times and Fees
Open Work Permit Option
Common Mistakes to Avoid
How Mirzoyan Immigration Services Can Help
FAQs
What Is Spousal Sponsorship?
Spousal sponsorship is a program under Canada's Family Class immigration category, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residency. This initiative aims to reunite families and strengthen the social fabric of Canadian society.
Eligibility Requirements
To sponsor a spouse or partner, you must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered under the Canadian Indian Act.
Reside in Canada or intend to return to Canada when your sponsored partner becomes a permanent resident.
Demonstrate the ability to provide financial support for basic needs, including food, shelter, and healthcare not covered by public services.
Not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability.
Not have been convicted of certain criminal offences.
Who Can Be Sponsored
You can sponsor:
Spouse: Legally married to you and at least 18 years old.
Common-law Partner: Not legally married but has lived with you in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months.
Conjugal Partner: Not legally married or in a common-law relationship but has been in a relationship with you for at least one year and cannot live with you due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., cultural or legal barriers).
Types of Sponsorship: Inland vs. Outland
Inland Sponsorship:
For partners already living in Canada.
Allows the sponsored person to apply for an open work permit while the application is processed.
Both partners must live together during the process.
Outland Sponsorship:
For partners living outside Canada.
Processed through the visa office responsible for the applicant's country of origin or residence.
The sponsored person can still visit Canada during the process, but must maintain legal status.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Create an Online Account: Both the sponsor and the applicant need to create accounts on the Permanent Residence Portal.
Complete the Application Package: Includes forms for both sponsorship and permanent residence.
Gather Supporting Documents: Proof of relationship, identity documents, police certificates, and medical exams.
Pay the Application Fees: Includes processing fees, right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics fee.
Submit the Application: Ensure all forms and documents are complete to avoid delays.
Provide Biometrics: The sponsored person will receive instructions to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Wait for Processing: Monitor the application status online and respond promptly to any additional requests.
Processing Times and Fees
Processing Time: Approximately 12 months for most applications.
Fees:
Sponsorship fee: $75
Principal applicant processing fee: $490
Right of permanent residence fee: $515
Biometrics fee: $85
Open Work Permit Option
If applying through inland sponsorship, the sponsored person may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work in Canada while the application is processed. To qualify, the applicant must have valid temporary resident status and live with the sponsor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incomplete Applications: Ensure all forms are filled out correctly and all required documents are included.
Insufficient Proof of Relationship: Provide ample evidence, such as photos, communication records, and joint financial documents.
Missing Deadlines: Respond promptly to requests for additional information or documents.
Incorrect Fees: Double-check the fee amounts and ensure they are paid in full.
How Mirzoyan Immigration Services Can Help
Navigating the spousal sponsorship process can be complex and time-consuming. Mirzoyan Immigration Services offers expert guidance to help you:
Determine your eligibility and choose the appropriate sponsorship type.
Prepare and review your application to ensure completeness and accuracy.
Gather and organize supporting documents effectively.
Communicate with IRCC on your behalf and respond to any inquiries.
With a proven track record of successful sponsorship applications, Mirzoyan Immigration Services is committed to reuniting families in Canada. Contact us today to start your journey.
FAQs
Q1: Can I sponsor my spouse if I live outside Canada?
A: Yes, if you're a Canadian citizen living abroad, you can sponsor your spouse, but you must demonstrate your intention to return to Canada when they become a permanent resident.
Q2: What if my application is refused?
A: If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons.
Q3: How can I prove my relationship is genuine?
A: Provide evidence such as joint financial accounts, photos together, communication records, and affidavits from friends and family.
Q4: Is there a minimum income requirement to sponsor my spouse?
A: Generally, there is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship, unless the sponsored person has dependent children.
Q5: Can my spouse work in Canada while waiting for permanent residency?
A: If applying through inland sponsorship, your spouse can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work while the application is processed.
