How can I speed up my spouse visa?
Last updated: January, 2026
The truth is that you cannot directly ‘speed up’ a spousal sponsorship application, and IRCC processes applications on a first-in, first-out basis. Formal expedited processing is generally unavailable except in exceptional humanitarian or urgent situations considered by IRCC on a case-by-case basis, and even then there is no guarantee of priority processing. But you can prevent delays and make it easier for an officer to finish your file faster on their side.
Here’s what actually helps:
- Send a complete, clean application from the start
- Follow IRCC’s official guide and checklist line by line.
- Use the newest forms.
- Make sure all dates match (addresses, work, studies, travel).
- Keep names and passport numbers identical on every form.
- Answer every question, even if the answer is “not applicable.”
Small mistakes can add weeks because IRCC must ask for corrections.
- Organize strong relationship proof
- Label photos with dates and short notes.
- Show visits over time with boarding passes and travel records.
- Add communication samples like chats and call logs (clear samples, not thousands).
- Include joint bills, leases, money transfers, or family letters.
Organized evidence saves the officer time and reduces follow-up questions.
- Avoid preventable delays
- Do biometrics and medical exams as soon as IRCC asks.
- Order police certificates early—some countries take months.
- Answer IRCC letters fully and before the deadline.
- Understand what does not speed things up
Calling IRCC, emailing them, or asking your MP normally does not make the file go faster. Only real emergencies qualify for urgent processing.
For more about what calling IRCC can and cannot do, see our FAQ explaining it.
With a complete, well-organized application, you can’t jump the line – but you can avoid delays and help the process run as smoothly as possible.
Want to know if you can speed up your application or need information on processing time spouse sponsorship Canada, book a consultation and get help with Canadian immigration. You can also check our Immigration Consultant Fees.