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Family Reunification
Spousal Sponsorship Canada
Bring your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada as a permanent resident. Processing times average 12 months for most applications.
Processing
12 months
Total Fees
$1,080 (couple)
Undertaking
3 years
Include
Dependents
Program Overview
About Spousal Sponsorship
Spousal sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence. This is one of the most popular immigration programs, with over 80,000 approvals annually.
The program has two processing options. Inland applications are for partners already living in Canada, who can apply for an open work permit while waiting. Outland applications are processed at visa offices abroad and typically have faster processing times.
IRCC prioritizes spousal applications and aims to process most within 12 months. The key to approval is proving your relationship is genuine and not primarily for immigration purposes.
Free Assessment
Find out if you qualify to sponsor your family member. Our RCIC consultants will review your case.
Book ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Eligibility
Who Can Sponsor & Be Sponsored
Who Can Sponsor
- Canadian citizens (living in Canada or abroad)
- Permanent residents (must live in Canada)
- At least 18 years old
- Not receiving social assistance (except for disability)
- Can financially support your spouse
- Not in prison, bankrupt, or under a removal order
Who Can Be Sponsored
- Legally married spouse (any gender)
- Common-law partner (lived together 12+ months)
- Conjugal partner (unable to live together due to immigration barriers)
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Can include dependent children
Documentation
Required Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport for sponsor and applicant
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law
- Divorce certificates (if previously married)
Relationship Proof
- Photos together over time
- Communication records (messages, calls)
- Joint finances (bank accounts, bills)
- Shared address documentation
- Statutory declarations from family/friends
Financial Documents
- Notice of Assessment from CRA
- Employment letter
- Pay stubs (recent 3 months)
- Bank statements
Additional Requirements
- Police certificates for applicant
- Immigration medical exam
- Photos meeting IRCC specifications
- IMM forms completed and signed
Application Process
How to Apply
1
Gather Documents
Collect all identity documents, relationship proof, and financial records. Get police certificates and book medical exams.
2
Complete Application Forms
Fill out the IMM forms for both sponsor and applicant. Include Schedule A and relationship questionnaires.
3
Submit Application
Submit online through the IRCC portal. Pay the fees and upload all supporting documents.
4
Biometrics
Applicant provides fingerprints and photos at a designated collection point.
5
Wait for Decision
IRCC reviews your application. They may request additional documents or schedule an interview.
6
Receive PR
Once approved, your spouse receives confirmation of permanent residence and can travel to or remain in Canada.
Costs
Government Fees
Sponsorship Fee$75
Principal Applicant$490
Dependent Child$155 per child
Total Estimate$1,080 (couple) + Right of PR Fee $515
Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current fee schedule. Additional costs may include medical exams, police certificates, and translation services.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor my spouse if I am a permanent resident living outside Canada?
No. Permanent residents must live in Canada to sponsor. Canadian citizens can sponsor from abroad but must show intent to live in Canada when the sponsored person arrives.
What is the minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship?
There is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship (unlike parent sponsorship). You just need to show you are not receiving social assistance other than disability benefits.
Can my spouse work in Canada while the application is processing?
If you apply inland, your spouse can apply for an open work permit that allows them to work for any employer while waiting for the PR decision.
What happens if our relationship ends during processing?
You should notify IRCC. If the relationship ends before PR is granted, the application will typically be refused. After PR is granted, your spouse keeps their status.
How do I prove a common-law relationship?
You need to show you have lived together continuously for at least 12 months. Evidence includes shared lease, joint bills, mail to same address, and statutory declarations.
Can I sponsor someone I married while they were in Canada illegally?
Yes, but the application is more complex. The sponsored person may need to leave Canada for processing. Consult with an immigration consultant for your specific situation.
Ready to Sponsor Your Family?
Our RCIC consultants have helped thousands of families reunite in Canada. Book a consultation to discuss your spousal sponsorship case.