Is It Possible for Me to Sponsor Spouse in Canada?

In Canada, citizens as well as permanent residents are allowed to sponsor their spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners for permanent residence easily through the Spousal Sponsorship Program. This program is designed to make it easier to sponsor a spouse, reunite families, and allow loved ones to live together in Canada. They just must meet some requirements that are necessary for sponsorship. In this article, we will explore the entire process of sponsorship and provide key details so that you can understand how you can sponsor.

Am I Allowed to Sponsor My Spouse in Canada

To sponsor your spouse in Canada, you need to follow certain rules that the IRCC sets. They are:

• You need to be 18 or older.
• You need to either have Canadian citizenship, hold permanent resident status, or be officially recognized under the Canadian Indian Act.
• You must live in Canada or plan to return to Canada once the spouse becomes a permanent resident.
• Not receiving social assistance (except for disability-related support).
• Be able to financially support their spouse or partner for 3 years.

Note: If you are a Canadian citizen who is living outside of Canada, you can still sponsor your spouse easily. This is only possible when you prove to the Canadian government that you will return to Canada when your spouse becomes a permanent resident. However, if you are a permanent resident, you must already be living in Canada to apply for sponsorship.

Who Are You Allowed to Sponsor?

You can simply sponsor:

• Spouse: You must be married legally to your spouse.
• Common-law partners: You and your partner have lived together in a relationship like a marriage for at least 12 continuous months.
• Conjugal partners: You have been in a real relationship for at least one year, but you cannot live together or get married because of some pressure or things that you could not control, like immigration rules, cultural traditions, or religious reasons.

Keep in mind that your marriage or relationship should be real. It shouldn’t be a fake marriage that is held only to get a permanent resident. IRCC has strict rules about it, and all your documents are checked completely.

Two Ways to Apply: Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship

1. Inland Sponsorship

This path is usually taken if the spouse is already in Canada (on a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa). It is an open work permit, which permits inland applicants to work while waiting for the decision.

2. Outland Sponsorship

If your spouse is living in another country, then the Outland application process is used. For some people, this option can be quicker. The sponsored spouse can also visit Canada while waiting for the decision on sponsorship.

Processing Time

The standard processing time of an outland spousal sponsorship is currently 11 months, but due to things like missing papers, interviews, or extra background checks, the process can be slow. So, the time may vary. If your spouse is living in Canada, the processing time is 34 months.

Step-by-Step Guide to Spousal Sponsorship in Canada

1. Make Sure You are Eligible
   Before applying for the process, check that both of you meet all the rules to apply. This includes age, status in Canada, and your relationship type.
2. Fill Out the Right Forms
   Download the spousal sponsorship forms from the official immigration website and carefully complete each one.
3. Collect All the Needed Documents
   Put together everything required, like IDs, relationship proof, and other papers. Use the checklist to stay organized.
4. Pay the Application Fees
   You’ll need to pay fees for sponsorship, permanent residency, and biometrics. These are usually paid online.
5. Send in Your Application
   Once everything is ready, submit your application either online or by mail, depending on what applies to your case.
6. Give Biometrics
   Your spouse will need to go to a nearby center to give their fingerprints and have their photo taken.
7. Wait While Your Application Is Reviewed
   Immigration officers will look over your application. This part takes time, and they may contact you if they need anything else.
8. Receive the Final Decision
   You will get a message once a decision is made. If everything is approved, your spouse will get permanent residency in Canada.

What Happens After Approval?

Once approved, the spouse or partner receives permanent resident status. The sponsor must support their spouse financially for 3 years, starting from the day they become a permanent resident of Canada. This means if the sponsored spouse uses social assistance during this time, the sponsor may be required to repay it.

Conclusion

You can easily sponsor your spouse in Canada by following the rules and regulations. The process requires full attention, accurate documentation, and proof of a real relationship. You can apply for spousal sponsorship anytime. It doesn’t matter how many years have passed; you just have to provide real documents of your marriage, and your process will start. You should consider consulting with a licensed immigration consultant to have a professional help.