Compare All Spousal Programs
If you’re planning to reunite with your spouse, partner, or fiancé(e) in Canada, this comparison helps you navigate the three primary pathways within the Family Class category to identify the best fit for your situation.
Spouse or Partner Sponsorship (PR) serves as the permanent residency route for those ready for long-term settlement, accessible via Inland or Outland processing for married and common-law couples alike. To support your transition, the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) offers financial flexibility; however, your spouse can only apply for this authorization after the sponsorship application has been officially accepted and an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) has been issued. For couples not yet ready for sponsorship or those awaiting Outland processing, a Visitor Visa provides a temporary way to stay together under the “Dual Intent” policy.
Each of these programs has different requirements, benefits, and timelines depending on your location, status, and long-term goals. Book a consultation with our Canadian immigration consultants to assess your relationship and explore all available options. Our team will help you compare pathways and choose the right one for your unique journey—ensuring every step is taken with confidence and clarity.
Program Name
Spousal Sponsorship
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Visitor Visa for Spouse
Primary Objective
Obtain Permanent Residency (PR)
Authorized Employment in Canada
Temporary Family Reunification
Eligibility Criteria
Spouses of Canadian Citizens (Inland & Outland) or Permanent Residents (Only Inland)
Applicants with a pending Inland Spousal Sponsorship application; Spouses of International Students and Foreign Workers (if eligible)
Open to All Applicants, Except Those from Visa-exempt Countries, Who Are Required To Obtain An eTA.
Work Authorization
Authorized upon PR Approval
Authorized upon Permit Issuance
Not Permitted (Unless status is changed)
Average Processing Time
🕓🕓🕓
🕓🕓
🕓🕓
Success Rate
High
Average to High (Depending on the Stream)
Low to Average (Depending on country of residence and strength of ties)
Government Application Fees (CAD)
Sponsorship Fee: $85
Principal Applicant Processing Fee: $545
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $575
Biometrics Fee: $85 (usually paid at the time of submission)
TOTAL: $1,290
Work Permit Processing Fee: $155
Open Work Permit Holder Fee: $100
Biometrics Fee: $85 (usually paid at the time of submission)
TOTAL: $340
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) Fee: $100
Biometrics Fee: $85
TOTAL: $185
Note: If The Spouse Is From A Visa-exempt Country, They Would Only Pay $7 For An eTA Instead.
Our Professional Fees (CAD or USD)
Consultation: $50-$200
Full: $3,750
DIY: $2,250
Peace of Mind: $650
Consultation: $50-$200
Full: $1,750
DIY: $1,050
Peace of Mind: $425
Consultation: $50-$200
Full: $1,750
DIY: $1,200
Peace of Mind: $650
