Withdrawing from a spousal sponsorship is not automatically a problem – it’s simply a request to have IRCC stop processing the file. If you act before a final decision, most withdrawals are accepted, but the result depends on who withdraws, what stage the file is at, and whether there are linked applications (like an inland open work permit). Our Licensed immigration consultants can help you withdraw correctly, understand likely refunds, and avoid status issues – review our Spousal Sponsorship Fees or book a consultation to get started.
How do I withdraw or cancel a spousal sponsorship application in Canada?
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Withdrawing (sometimes called “cancelling”) a spousal sponsorship means you’re asking IRCC to stop processing the file. In most cases, you can withdraw any time before a final decision is made / before the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident, but the outcome depends on who withdraws, what stage the file is at, and whether there are linked applications (like an inland open work permit).
The most common (and fastest) way to withdraw is by sending IRCC a clear written request through the IRCC webform. IRCC’s own instructions for family sponsorship withdrawals tell you to use the webform and include identifying information so they can match your request to the correct file.
In your withdrawal message, keep the wording simple and unambiguous. Include:
- Sponsor’s full name + date of birth + UCI (if available)
- Applicant’s full name + date of birth + UCI (if available)
- Application number (if available)
- The date the application was submitted (if known)
- A direct statement that you’re requesting to withdraw the spousal sponsorship application (and specify whether you’re withdrawing the sponsorship, the PR application, or both)
- Your typed name/signature style and date
- Upload proof of payment/receipt if requested
Who can withdraw matters. The sponsor can withdraw their sponsorship support, which usually ends the PR process because the sponsorship is required for IRCC to finalize the application. The principal applicant can also request withdrawal of their PR application. If you used an authorized representative, they can submit the request – but IRCC may still require proper authorization on file (for example, IMM 5476 or IMM 5475) before they’ll act on or discuss the file with that person.
After IRCC records the withdrawal, processing stops. One key nuance people miss: withdrawing doesn’t extend or “fix” anyone’s status in Canada. If the sponsored person is in Canada on temporary status (visitor, worker, student), they still need to maintain valid status separately and on time.
Refunds are possible, but they depend on timing. IRCC explains that if they’ve already started processing, you may not get all fees back, and the review/refund can take weeks. In many spousal files, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is the most commonly refundable fee (if PR has not been granted), while other fees may be partially refundable or non-refundable once processing has started.
Finally, a withdrawal is not a tool to “undo” permanent residence. If the application has already been finalized and the sponsored person has already become a permanent resident, you generally can’t withdraw the file to reverse that result – withdrawals are meant for applications still in process.
If you want help withdrawing correctly (and understanding what refunds are realistic at your stage), speak with our immigration consultants, review our transparent fees, or book a consultation.
