Canada Spouse Immigration
The Canada Spouse Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner for permanent residency. This program ensures families can live together in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
To sponsor a spouse, you must:
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. (Permanent residents must live in Canada; Canadian citizens can sponsor from abroad but must plan to return to Canada with their spouse).
• Prove financial capacity to support the sponsored person without social assistance (excluding disability benefits).
• Not have been sponsored as a spouse within the last five years, be imprisoned, or bankrupt
Documents Required
• Marriage Certificate: Legal proof of marriage or, if in a common-law relationship, proof of one year of cohabitation.
• Proof of Relationship: Joint bank accounts, lease agreements, photos together, chat logs, and other evidence of an authentic, ongoing relationship.
• Additional Documents: Police certificates, medical examination results, sponsorship agreements, and financial pledges to support the sponsored spouse
Types of Sponsorship
There are two main types of spousal sponsorship:
1. Inland Sponsorship: Both partners reside in Canada, allowing the sponsored spouse to apply for an Open Work Permit.
2. Outland Sponsorship: For couples where the sponsored spouse resides outside Canada. Outland applications may be faster, particularly if the applicant does not plan to stay in Canada during the application process
Application Process
1. Gather Documents: Complete the required forms and gather necessary documents, including a sponsorship agreement and proof of the relationship.
2. Submit Application: Both parties must sign electronically and submit the application online, including any family members if applicable.
3. Biometrics and Medical Exams: Book biometrics and medical exams as needed.
4. Pay Fees: Pay fees online, including processing fees, right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics fees.
5. Link Application Online: IRCC will prompt you to link your application to their online portal, allowing you to track its status.
Incomplete applications may result in delays, and additional information requests may extend processing time
FAQs
• Can my spouse work in Canada while applying? Inland applications may be eligible for an Open Work Permit, allowing the spouse to work while awaiting a decision.
• What if my spouse resides outside Canada? The Outland sponsorship route is an option, though it may take slightly longer.