What can still go wrong after approval in principle?
Approval in principle is reversible, which is why treating it as the finish line is a mistake. Eligibility was approved on the evidence in front of the officer at that moment. A failed medical, a security or criminality concern, or new information about the relationship can all still sink the application. Separation or divorce after approval in principle ends the basis for a spousal application entirely, and you are obliged to tell IRCC. Misrepresentation discovered later can trigger a five-year bar. The practical rule is simple: keep your medical valid, respond to every IRCC request inside the deadline, and report any change in your relationship or address promptly.
- Medical results expire or come back with an inadmissibility finding.
- Security or criminality screening raises a concern for you or a dependant.
- The relationship ends, or IRCC receives information suggesting it is not genuine.
- You miss a request for additional documents and the file is refused for non-response.
- Undisclosed information surfaces and is treated as misrepresentation.
How much does spousal sponsorship cost in 2026?
Sponsoring a spouse or partner costs $1,260 in government fees. IRCC publishes this as a bundled amount covering the sponsorship fee, the principal applicant processing fee, and the $600 right of permanent residence fee, rather than as separate line items. The right of permanent residence fee can be paid later, which brings the upfront amount down to $660. The totals are identical whether your partner is in Canada or abroad. The open work permit is billed separately at $155 for the work permit plus the $100 open work permit holder fee. Biometrics add $85 per person. None of these figures change based on whether you have reached approval in principle.
| Item | Fee (CAD) |
|---|
| Spousal sponsorship, including right of permanent residence fee | 1,260 |
| Spousal sponsorship, without right of permanent residence fee | 660 |
|
Current amounts are on IRCC's fee list.
Frequently asked questions
What is AIP in spousal sponsorship?
It is the first-stage decision confirming that your sponsor qualifies and IRCC accepts your relationship as genuine. Medical, security and background checks remain outstanding after it is issued.
How long does it take to get approval in principle in spousal sponsorship?
IRCC does not publish a timeline for this stage. It publishes a total processing time of about 27 months for inland applications outside Quebec and about 17 months for outland applications outside Quebec, as of July 7, 2026.
What is an approval in principle letter from IRCC?
It is a letter stating you meet the permanent residence eligibility requirements while the medical, security and background checks are still pending. Out-of-status applicants must attach a copy of it to a paper open work permit application.
Who is the principal applicant in spousal sponsorship in Canada?
The principal applicant is the person being sponsored, not the sponsor. The sponsor is the Canadian citizen or permanent resident who submits the sponsorship undertaking.
Does approval in principle give me status in Canada?
No. It is a decision on eligibility for permanent residence, not a grant of temporary or permanent status. You must maintain your own valid status or apply for restoration if you have lost it.
Can approval in principle be revoked?
Yes. It can be reversed if a check comes back negative, the relationship ends, or IRCC receives new information that changes the eligibility assessment.
Sources
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, book a consultation with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) at gofarglobal.com.
