What is Spousal Sponsorship?
Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their foreign national spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner for permanent residency. Approximately 94,500 applicants will be welcomed in 2025 through this pathway, helping families build a future together in Canada.
To learn more about Spousal Sponsorship eligibility and requirements, contact Dreamland Immigration for a free consultation and personalized assistance.
Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
You may qualify to sponsor your partner if you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident in Canada, or are registered under the Canadian Indian Act
- Are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident in Canada, or are registered under the Canadian Indian Act
- Live in Canada, or are a Canadian citizen planning to return to Canada
- Are not receiving social assistance (except for a disability)
- Have the financial means to support yourself, your partner, and any dependent children
Sponsors are required to demonstrate financial independence and must be able to support their spouse or partner without relying on social assistance
Your foreign spouse is not considered a spouse by IRCC if the marriage was a proxy marriage.
Wondering if you’re eligible? Contact us today for a free eligibility assessment!
Spousal Sponsorship Financial Requirement
Sponsors must sign an undertaking that commits them to cover the basic needs of the sponsored partner and any dependents. This obligation typically lasts 3 years from the date the partner receives permanent residency and covers:
- Housing and utility bills
- Food and daily necessities
- Clothing and hygiene products
- Medical expenses not covered by public health insurance, such as eye care and dentistry
While there is no specific income threshold, applicants must show they can financially support their spouse once in Canada. Note that sponsorship is not allowed if you’re in bankruptcy or receiving government assistance (unless due to disability)
After confirming your eligibility, follow these steps to apply for:
- Complete the application package: This includes forms and detailed instructions.
- Pay application and processing fees online.
- Submit your application as outlined in the application guide.
- Provide all required documentation listed in the package.
The spousal sponsorship process typically takes around 12 months. Applications must be sent ONLINE. Note that conjugal partners may face additional requirements.
Here are (FAQs) about Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship program
How long does the spousal sponsorship process take?
The processing time usually takes about 12 months, but it can vary based on the applicant’s country of residence and other factors.
Can I sponsor my spouse if I am living outside of Canada?
Yes, Canadian citizens can sponsor their spouse from abroad, but they must prove they plan to return to Canada once the application is approved. Permanent residents must live in Canada to be eligible to sponsor.
What is an undertaking, and how long does it last?
An undertaking is a commitment made by the sponsor to financially support the basic needs of the sponsored spouse. This commitment lasts for three years from the date the spouse becomes a permanent resident and cannot be cancelled or withdrawn.
What documents are needed for spousal sponsorship?
Common documents include passports, marriage certificates, police certificates, proof of relationship (such as photos and joint financial records), and completed application forms. The IRCC’s document checklist provides a comprehensive guide.
What happens if the sponsorship application is denied?
If your application is denied, IRCC will explain the reasons. You may appeal the decision if eligible, or you can reapply, ensuring that any issues from the previous application are resolved.
Can I sponsor my spouse if I was previously sponsored?
If you were granted permanent residency through spousal sponsorship, you must wait five years before sponsoring a new spouse or partner.
Is my spouse eligible for health care while waiting for sponsorship approval?
In some provinces, spouses may qualify for health care while waiting for approval, but this varies based on provincial health policies. It’s best to confirm with your local health authority.
What if I can’t meet the sponsorship obligations?
Sponsors are legally obligated to fulfil their commitments once signed. Failure to meet these obligations may result in consequences, such as being barred from future sponsorship opportunities.
Is there an interview as part of the process?
In certain cases, IRCC may require an interview to confirm the authenticity of the relationship. The location of this interview, whether in Canada or at a visa office abroad, will depend on the applicant’s specific circumstances.
Can my spouse be denied entry or sponsorship due to a past conviction?
Yes, a spouse can be considered inadmissible due to certain criminal convictions. However, it is possible to seek legal advice for potential solutions, such as criminal rehabilitation, to address inadmissibility.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can check your application status online via the IRCC account or the Client Application Status (CAS) portal.
Why Choose Professional Assistance for Spousal Sponsorship?
Applying for spousal sponsorship can be complex due to the volume of documentation and the risk of delays if there are errors or missing information. Common issues that lead to application denial include:
- Incomplete or incorrect forms
- Insufficient proof of a genuine relationship
- Misrepresentation of facts (intentional or accidental)
- Inadmissibility issues due to past convictions
At Dreamland Immigration, we specialize in spousal and family sponsorship applications, ensuring forms are error-free and documents meet the requirements. Our services help families navigate the sponsorship process smoothly and confidently.
For professional assistance in your spousal sponsorship application, contact Dreamland Immigration for a free consultation.
Contact Us
Whether you need guidance, document review, or full representation, we’re here to help.
Contact Dreamland Immigration at:
• Phone: +1(647)514-2449
• Email: forough@dreamlandimmigration.com
Don’t risk delays in bringing your loved one to Canada. Let Dreamland Immigration assist you every step of the way!
