Who is eligible to sponsor a conjugal partner in Canada?

To be eligible to sponsor a conjugal partner in Canada, the sponsor must meet the standard requirements set by IRCC, along with additional expectations unique to this category. Because conjugal sponsorship is used only when no other sponsorship route is possible, sponsors must demonstrate both eligibility and genuine need.

First, the sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and at least 18 years old. Canadian citizens may apply while living abroad, but they must prove they will return to Canada once the partner becomes a permanent resident. Permanent residents must be physically living in Canada throughout the entire process.

Sponsors must also show they can financially support their partner and cannot receive social assistance for reasons other than disability. While there is no minimum income requirement, the sponsor must sign a three-year undertaking to provide financial support after the partner becomes a permanent resident.

A sponsor is not eligible if they are:

• In default of a previous sponsorship undertaking
• Bankrupt and undischarged
• Convicted of certain crimes, especially those involving violence or family members
• Under a removal order

For a more complete overview of disqualifying conditions, you can also review our related FAQ: “Who is not eligible to sponsor a conjugal partner?”

If you would like professional help from Canadian immigration consultants for organizing your documents or preparing your application, you can book an appointment with our team. Information on professional service pricing is available on our Immigration Consultant Fees page.