Reunite with Your Partner: Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
The Spousal & Common Law Partners in Canada nobles Canadian citizens and PR holders to sponsor their spouses or common-law or conjugal partners to become permanent residents in Canada. This program aims to promote reunification by allowing eligible sponsors to bring their partners to live with them.
Spousal sponsorship applies to legally married couples, while common-law partner sponsorship applies to couples who have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year. Sponsors must meet certain eligibility criteria and undertake responsibilities to support their sponsored partners for a designated period.
Spouse, common-law, and conjugal partners
- Spouse: The sponsor is married to the sponsored, legally (no separation claimed).
- CLP: Without being legally married (have been living together for at least a year and sharing a domestic life).
- Conjugal: Similar to that of a CLP, without being able to live together or marry due to circumstances.
“EACH RELATIONSHIP HAS UNIQUE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS.”
Family sponsorship is different
Family Class Outland Sponsorship is an immigration program allowing Canadian citizens and PR holders residing outside Canada to sponsor their eligible family members for permanent residency.
Fees and processing time
You can mail your application or apply online on the IRCC’s PR application portal. The sponsorship fee is CAD 75. An additional CAD 150 for dependent children. It takes nearly a year to process your application (minimum). Resolve if you have any pending issues.
Interview
Immigration interviews are rarer. However, it may be required in exceptional cases, for example, limited documents, authenticity of the documents, and suspicious relationship or relationships under review. The IRCC will take the final decision. Hiring a recognized immigration advisor is advisable.
Medical concern
The IRCC will allow your Spousal & Common Law Partners in Canada to come to Canada even if they have a serious medical issue. Ensure that the medical condition doesn’t pose a risk to the health or safety of the population. There are 3 types of medical inadmissibility.
Sponsor eligibility criteria
- You must be a Canadian citizen or a Canadian permanent resident;
- Your age is 18 years or above;
- Living in Canada, or have plans to return to Canada soon;
- You must be financially sound;
- Must be willing to offer financial and basic support to the sponsored partner for 3 years.
Your obligation as a sponsor
As a sponsor, you’re obliged to provide for their (spouse, conjugal partner, or CLP) basic needs, including daily and healthcare requirements. Before signing the agreement, you must ensure they don’t need any social assistance. If they do, you’re required to reimburse the full amount received. Failure to repay may restrict your ability to sponsor another eligible family member.
Vital facts
- A sponsor can apply without a job offer
- No need to submit a minimum income requirement proof
- Your partner can come to Canada while you are waiting for approval
- Sponsored individuals are not obliged to prove their language proficiency
- The category of sponsorship will determine the length of the undertaking
Basic documents for spousal sponsorship
- A complete application
- Your recent status in Canada as a sponsor
- Your legal identity documents
- Certificate of marriage
- Police clearance and certificate
- Spouse’s medical certificate
- Recent passport size photo
- Marriage certificate (govt. authorized), photos/videos, and invitation card
- Submit relationship questionnaire
- Proof of payment for applicable government fees
- Authentic relationship documents (if you have any children)
- A running bank account (shared)
Basic documents for common-law relationship
- Submit relationship questionnaire
- Authentic relationship documents for children
- Anything that proves your relationship with your partner (documents, photos, videos, shared bills, or certificates)
- Shared residence
- Proof that you have lived together for at least one year
- Submit proof that both partner’s family members and friends are aware of the relationship
In Quebec
Quebec’s requirements are unique. It is advisable to consult with us before applying.
Contacts us Visa Harbour now and consult with one of our recognized consultants. We will be happy to help you!
