How long does it take to get a spouse visitor visa for Canada?

The processing time for a visitor visa for spouse varies significantly because IRCC processes visitor visa applications through different visa offices around the world. Each office has its own workload, staffing levels, and security checks, which directly affect timelines.

In general:

• Some applications are decided within a few weeks, especially from countries with lower application volumes.
• Others may take several months, particularly if the visa office is busy or if additional review is required.

Several factors influence how long it takes:

• Country of residence and the visa office handling the file
• Completeness of the application, including forms, documents, and translations
• Strength of supporting evidence, such as proof of relationship, travel history, financial documents, and ties to the home country
• Background or security checks, which can add time
• Previous refusals, which often lead to closer scrutiny

It’s important to understand that being married to or sponsored by a Canadian does not guarantee faster processing or automatic approval. IRCC still assesses whether the spouse will respect visitor conditions and leave Canada if required. This is why many applicants also want clarity on “What is a dual intent visitor visa for spouses in Canada?”, since dual intent often applies in these cases.

To avoid unnecessary delays, it helps to submit a well-prepared application that clearly explains the purpose of travel, the temporary nature of the visit, and the strength of the relationship.

To ensure your application is complete and meets all required standards, our Toronto immigration consultants provide full support throughout the process. You can review information about our Visitor Visa for Spouse fees, and for personalized guidance tailored to your situation, you may book a consultation or begin exploring the Visitor Visa for Spouse program for your next steps.