Spousal Sponsorship Canada

Canada’s Sponsorship Program for spouses, common-law partners, and conjugal partners is one of the most prioritized immigration streams under the Family Class category. It is designed to reunite couples by allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their partner for permanent residence—whether the couple is living together in Canada or separated by distance.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) considers family reunification a top priority, and spousal sponsorship applications are processed with high urgency. The average processing time is currently around 12 months for both Inland and Outland applications.

To qualify, the sponsor must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and not be subject to any ineligibility conditions (such as being in default of a previous undertaking). The sponsored applicant must prove that the relationship is genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes. Acceptable relationships include legally married spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners.

In an Outland sponsorship, the applicant usually resides outside Canada during the process. Once the application is approved, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) is issued, and the applicant must enter Canada before the expiry date shown on the visa. In contrast, Inland sponsorship applies when the couple is already living together in Canada. Once the sponsorship is approved, the applicant’s status is adjusted from temporary to permanent. Inland applicants may also be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit, which enables them to work while their application is in progress.

Our experienced consultants can help you decide whether Inland or Outland processing is better suited for your situation. In cases where sponsorship is not yet feasible, temporary options such as a Visitor Visa may offer a way for partners to be together in the interim.

Book a consultation with our immigration professionals to receive personalized advice and build a complete, compelling sponsorship application. At RightWay Canada, we’re here to help you bring your loved one home, with guidance every step of the way.