Spousal Sponsorship Canada 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their legally married spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residency. This pathway prioritizes family reunification, giving couples the opportunity to build a life together in Canada, whether they are already together or separated by distance.
Who Can Be a Sponsor?
- At least 18 years old
- A Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act
- Living in Canada (or planning to return, if a citizen living abroad)
- Not receiving social assistance (except for disability)
- Financially able to support your partner for 3 years
Who Can Be Sponsored?
- Legally married spouse (recognized by Canadian law, including same-sex marriages)
- Common-law partner (lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least 12 consecutive months)
- Conjugal partner (in a committed relationship for at least 12 months but unable to live together due to barriers such as immigration restrictions)
- All sponsored persons must be 18 or older and pass medical, security, and background checks
Types of Spousal Sponsorship Applications
- Inland Sponsorship: If the spouse is residing in Canada (with valid temporary status). The applicant can apply for an Open Work Permit while the sponsorship is processed.
- Outland Sponsorship: If the spouse is living outside Canada. Generally faster for some countries and allows for appeal rights if refused.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Gather Documents: Download the required forms from IRCC, and gather identity, relationship, and financial documents. Complete the checklist (IMM 5533).
- Submit Online Application: All applications must now be submitted online unless you have an accommodation need.
- Pay Application Fees: Fees are usually: $85 (sponsorship), $545 (applicant processing), $575 (right of permanent residence), $85 (biometrics). Add $150 for each dependent child if included.
- Provide Biometrics and Complete Medical Exam: IRCC will instruct you when and how to complete these after initial review.
- Wait for Processing: Average processing times are about 12 months, but may vary by case type and location.
- Decision & Next Steps: If approved, the sponsored partner receives permanent residency. If refused, reasons will be provided and, for outland applications, you may appeal.
Key Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to meet a minimum income? Not for spousal sponsorship (unless you are also sponsoring a dependent child with dependents of their own), but you must show you can support your spouse and they won’t need social assistance.
- What documents prove my relationship is genuine? Marriage certificates, joint leases, bills, photos, correspondence, travel and meeting history, and affidavits from friends/family can be used.
- Can I withdraw my application? Yes, before final decision; some fees may be refunded.
- Can my spouse visit Canada while the application is processed? Yes, but approval of a visitor visa is not guaranteed and the applicant must show intent to leave if the visa expires before PR is granted.
- What if I live in Quebec? Additional forms and a provincial undertaking must be completed; Quebec also assesses sponsor income separately.
Why Choose Spousal Sponsorship?
- Prioritizes family unity and offers a straightforward pathway to Canadian PR for spouses and partners
- Includes same-sex and non-married committed relationships (with proof)
- Eligible for Open Work Permit (inland applications) during processing
- Appeal rights for outland applications if refused
