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Updated 2026-02-11
Spousal Sponsorship Processing Time: 12-18 Months
Reunite with your partner - track processing times and avoid delays
Current Time
12-18 months
Last Updated
2026-02-11
Trend
Times are stable
Processing Time Overview
About Spousal Sponsorship Processing
Spousal sponsorship processing times in 2026 are approximately 12-18 months for complete applications. This includes both inland (applicant is in Canada) and outland (applicant is outside Canada) applications, though processing times can vary slightly between streams. IRCC's service standard is to process 80% of complete applications within 12 months, but some applications may take longer depending on complexity and individual circumstances.
Inland applications have the advantage of allowing the sponsored spouse to apply for an open work permit alongside their sponsorship application, which typically processes in 4-6 months. This allows couples to work and live together in Canada while waiting for permanent residence approval. Outland applications generally cannot work in Canada unless they have separate work authorization, but they maintain the flexibility to travel in and out of Canada (visa permitting) during processing.
The processing time includes both the sponsor approval stage (typically 1-2 months) and the permanent residence application stage (remaining time). Applications requiring extensive background checks, documentation verification, relationship assessment interviews, or missing key documents will take longer. Providing comprehensive evidence of your genuine relationship from the start is crucial to avoid delays and potential refusals.
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Historical Data
Processing Time Trends
Track how processing times have changed over recent months
January 2026
12-18 months
Q4 2025
12-18 months
Q3 2025
12-20 months
Q2 2025
13-18 months
Q1 2025
12-16 months
2024 Average
12-24 months
Processing Factors
What Affects Processing Time?
Understanding these factors can help you prepare a stronger application
Completeness and quality of relationship evidence submitted
Country of residence of sponsored spouse (background check complexity)
Previous immigration history and relationship history of both parties
Need for relationship assessment interview (raises questions about genuineness)
Medical examination and security clearance processing
Whether inland or outland application (slight differences in processing paths)
Expert Tips
How to Avoid Processing Delays
Follow these best practices to keep your application moving smoothly
Submit comprehensive relationship evidence: photos, communication logs, joint finances, travel together
Include detailed relationship history form and personal statements from both partners
Complete medical exams and police certificates upfront to avoid delays
Ensure all forms are complete, accurate, and signed/dated properly
Submit additional voluntary relationship evidence (affidavits from family/friends, joint leases, etc.)
Consider inland application if spouse is legally in Canada and wants to work while waiting
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Spousal Sponsorship processing times
How long does spousal sponsorship take in Canada?
Spousal sponsorship applications in 2026 take approximately 12-18 months to process from submission to final decision. This includes both the sponsor approval stage (1-2 months) and the permanent residence application stage (remaining time). IRCC aims to process 80% of complete applications within 12 months. Processing times apply to both inland and outland applications, though individual circumstances, country of residence, and application completeness can affect timing.
What is the difference between inland and outland spousal sponsorship?
Inland spousal sponsorship is for couples where the sponsored spouse is currently living in Canada with legal status (visitor, student, or work permit). Inland applicants can apply for an open work permit (processed in 4-6 months) but must stay in Canada during processing. Outland spousal sponsorship is for spouses living outside Canada or in Canada. Outland applicants can travel during processing and may have slightly faster processing in some countries, but cannot apply for an open work permit unless they have separate work authorization. Both streams have similar overall processing times of 12-18 months.
What evidence do I need to prove my relationship is genuine?
To prove your relationship is genuine, provide comprehensive evidence across multiple categories: photos together over time and with families, communication records (emails, messages, call logs), proof of cohabitation or visits (travel documents, boarding passes), joint financial documents (bank accounts, bills, insurance), statutory declarations from family and friends, wedding photos and certificates if married, children's birth certificates if applicable, and detailed personal statements explaining your relationship history. The more evidence spanning the length of your relationship, the stronger your application.
Can my spouse work in Canada while the sponsorship is being processed?
If you applied for inland spousal sponsorship, your spouse can apply for an open work permit at the same time, which typically processes in 4-6 months. This allows them to work for any employer in Canada while waiting for permanent residence. If you applied outland, your spouse cannot work in Canada unless they have separate work authorization (work permit, study permit with work eligibility, etc.). The open work permit for inland spousal sponsorship is a significant advantage for couples already in Canada.
What happens if IRCC requests an interview for our sponsorship?
If IRCC requests an interview, it usually means they have concerns about the genuineness of your relationship and need additional assessment. Interviews are not routine and indicate your application requires additional scrutiny. Be honest, consistent with your written application, and prepared to answer detailed questions about your relationship, daily life together, and future plans. Bring additional relationship evidence to the interview. An interview doesn't mean automatic refusal, but it does add time to processing (typically 2-4 additional months) and requires careful preparation.
Related Programs
Other Processing Times
Check processing times for related immigration programs
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