Spousal Sponsorship Canada
Spousal sponsorship lets eligible Canadian citizens and permanent residents sponsor a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner for permanent residency. Success comes down to a genuine, well-documented relationship.
What is spousal sponsorship?
Spousal sponsorship is a family class immigration pathway that allows an eligible sponsor to bring their spouse or partner to Canada as a permanent resident. Applications are assessed heavily on whether the relationship is genuine and not entered into primarily for immigration purposes.
Inside or outside Canada
Applications can be made from within or outside Canada.
Genuineness matters
Evidence of a real relationship is central.
Leads to PR
Your partner becomes a permanent resident.
Types of partner sponsorship
The right category depends on your relationship status.
Spouse
Legally married partners.
Common-law partner
Partners who have cohabited for the required period.
Conjugal partner
For partners unable to marry or cohabit due to barriers.
How spousal sponsorship works
We help both sponsor and applicant build a complete, credible application.
Confirm eligibility
Check sponsor and partner eligibility.
Collect relationship proof
Photos, messages, finances and shared life evidence.
Prepare forms
Complete sponsorship and PR forms accurately.
Submit together
File the sponsorship and PR application as one package.
Biometrics & processing
Complete biometrics and respond to requests.
Confirmation of PR
Your partner becomes a permanent resident.
What you may need
Requirements vary by situation. Below are commonly requested documents.
Relationship evidence
- Marriage certificate or cohabitation proof
- Photos, communication, shared finances
Sponsor documents
- Proof of citizenship or PR
- Undertaking forms
Identity
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Photos
Admissibility
- Medical exam
- Police clearances
Who this is for
These profiles commonly apply with our support.
Married couples
Legally married spouses.
Common-law partners
Meeting cohabitation requirements.
Conjugal partners
Facing barriers to marriage or cohabitation.
Inland applicants
Partners already in Canada.
Overseas applicants
Partners outside Canada.
Open work permit seekers
Inland applicants who may qualify.
Spousal sponsorship questions
How long does it take?
Processing times vary. A complete, well-documented application avoids the most common delays.
Is there an income requirement?
Spousal sponsorship generally does not have a minimum income requirement.
Can my partner work while waiting?
Inland applicants may be eligible for an open work permit while the application is processed.
What evidence proves our relationship?
Photos, messages, joint finances, travel records, and statements from people who know you.
Can I sponsor from outside Canada?
Canadian citizens may sponsor from abroad if they will return to live in Canada.
Bring your partner to Canada
Get licensed help building a strong, genuine sponsorship application.