Many people move to Canada to pursue personal as well as professional opportunities that may not be available in their native countries. However, nothing makes these opportunities truly meaningful if your spouse lives an ocean away. That is where Canada’s spouse sponsorship application program comes in.
If you are planning to bring your loved one to Canada, read the following guide before you start.
Am I eligible?
The first thing you need to do is determine whether you are eligible for the spousal sponsorship application. To sponsor your spouse in Canada, you must be:
- At least 18 years of age;
- A Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act; and
- If you are a Canadian citizen living outside the country, you must prove that you will be living in Canada when your spouse becomes a permanent resident.
- Able to prove that you will not be in need of social assistance from the government – with the exception of disability.
Is my spouse eligible for sponsorship?
In Ontario, your spouse will be eligible for sponsorship if he/she is:
- Legally married to you; and
- At least 18 years of age.
If the individual is not legally married to you, he/she is eligible for spouse sponsorship in Canada under the following conditions.
As a common-law partner, who is:
- At least 18 years of age; and
- Has been living with you in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. (you need to show some degree of commitment towards each other like joint bank account etc.)
As a conjugal partner, who is:
- At least 18 years of age;
- In a relationship with you for at least one year; and
- Unable to live with or marry you in his/her country of residence due to legal and immigration challenges.
Where do I start?
When you sponsor your spouse in Canada, you must be able to provide financially for him/her in a process called an Undertaking. It begins on the day your spouse becomes a Canadian permanent resident, and lasts three years (in Ontario). An undertaking includes paying for your spouse’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter and any healthcare not covered by public services; as well as repaying any government assistance he/she has received thus far.
In addition, your spouse will have certain responsibilities during the three-year undertaking period – in a process called the Sponsorship Agreement. While you agree to support him/her financially, your spouse will need to demonstrate an effort to support him/herself, as well as any other family members.
How do I apply to sponsor my spouse?
You will need to submit two applications, as follows:
- Your application to become a sponsor; and
- Your spouse’s application to become a permanent resident.
For best results, it is recommended that you send both applications at the same time.
How long does spouse sponsorship application take?
The processing time for a Canadian spouse sponsorship application may take somewhere between 4 to 12 months depending on the case and the Canadian embassy in your region.
Are you ready to start the process of sponsoring your spouse to Canada? Contact Dreamland Immigration today for further details. We can help you every step of the way, from initial paperwork to approval!