Can I Sponsor My Spouse for Canadian Spousal Sponsorship if I’m Not Employed?

This is a common concern for people in Canada who want to bring their spouse to live with them but don’t currently have a job. The good news is, yes, you can sponsor your spouse even if you are unemployed. However, there are important rules and requirements you need to understand.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what Canadian immigration law says, how sponsorship works, and what you can do if you don’t have an income right now. We’ll also share tips to improve your chances of a successful application.

 

What is Spousal Sponsorship?

Spousal sponsorship is a process that allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to bring their spouse or common-law partner to live with them in Canada as a permanent resident. This is part of Canada’s Family Class immigration program.

There are two types of spousal sponsorship:

1. Inland Sponsorship – when your spouse is already in Canada.
   
   
2. Outland Sponsorship – when your spouse is living outside of Canada, or you can apply using this route from within Canada.
   
   

Do You Need a Job to Sponsor Your Spouse?

No, you do not need to be employed to sponsor your spouse.

Unlike other types of immigration (such as sponsoring parents or grandparents), spousal sponsorship does not require a minimum income. This is because the Canadian government assumes that relationships between spouses are genuine and should not be blocked by financial hardships alone.

However, you still need to prove that you can meet the basic needs of your spouse once they arrive in Canada. This includes:

• Food
  
  
• Shelter
  
  
• Clothing
  
  
• Healthcare (not covered by public health insurance)
  
  
• Other everyday living expenses
  
  

What Are the Basic Eligibility Requirements?

To sponsor your spouse, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
  
  
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act
  
  
• Live in Canada or prove that you will return once your spouse becomes a permanent resident
  
  
• Not be receiving social assistance (unless it's for a disability)
  
  
• Be able to provide financial support to your spouse for 3 years
  
  

If you’re unemployed but still meet the above criteria, you can apply to sponsor your spouse. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will look at your overall situation—not just whether you have a job.

What Happens If I’m on Social Assistance?

If you are receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability, you cannot sponsor your spouse. This is a firm rule under Canadian immigration law. The government wants to ensure that newcomers will not rely on public funds.

If your only income is from welfare, you should wait until your situation improves before applying. In the meantime, consider looking for employment, increasing your savings, or getting off social assistance (if possible and safe to do so).

How Can I Prove I Can Support My Spouse Without a Job?

Even if you're not employed, you can still show that you can support your spouse. Here are a few ways:

1. Savings: Provide bank statements showing you have enough savings to support both of you.
   
   
2. Gifts or Family Support: If your family is willing to help financially, include letters of support.
   
   
3. Freelance or Self-Employment Income: If you do gig work or freelance jobs, provide proof of that income.
   
   
4. Proof of Past Employment: Show your past work history and explain why you're currently not working (e.g., illness, school, or taking care of a child).
   
   
5. Plans to Return to Work: Share a job search plan, applications you've submitted, or letters from potential employers.
   
   

These documents help IRCC see that you're serious about supporting your spouse and not just relying on government aid.

What is the Undertaking Agreement?

When you sponsor your spouse, you must sign an undertaking agreement. This is a legal promise to financially support them for 3 years, even if your relationship ends. If your spouse receives government help during this period, the government can ask you to repay that money.

This is why IRCC wants to see that you understand your financial responsibilities, even if you're currently unemployed.

Tips to Strengthen Your Spousal Sponsorship Application

1. Be Honest and Complete: Make sure every section of the application is filled out completely and truthfully. Missing documents or false information can cause delays or rejection.
   
   
2. Include Relationship Proof: Submit photos, messages, travel records, and other proof that your relationship is genuine.
   
   
3. Explain Financial Situation Clearly: If you’re unemployed, write a detailed explanation of how you plan to support your spouse.
   
   
4. Consult an Immigration Lawyer: Legal professionals can help ensure your application is strong and complete, especially if your case is complex.
   
   

What If I’m Outside Canada and Unemployed?

If you’re a Canadian citizen living abroad and want to sponsor your spouse, you must show that you plan to return to Canada when your spouse gets permanent residency. If you’re not working, show where you plan to live and how you’ll support yourselves once you return.

Permanent residents, however, must already be living in Canada to sponsor a spouse.

Real-Life Example

Let’s say Emma is a Canadian citizen who lost her job last month. Her husband, Daniel, lives in Mexico. Emma has some savings and her parents have offered to help with living costs if Daniel is approved. Emma writes a letter explaining her situation, includes her bank statements, and adds letters from her parents confirming their financial support.

Despite being unemployed, Emma’s application could still be approved because she’s honest, prepared, and demonstrates a clear plan to support Daniel.

Conclusion and additional support

Yes, you can sponsor your spouse even if you’re not employed. Canadian immigration rules for spousal sponsorship are designed to keep families together. While financial support is important, there is no fixed income requirement for spouses. What matters most is that you show you’re willing and able to care for your partner and that your relationship is genuine.

If you're worried about how to build a strong case without a job, we can help you navigate the process.

Book a strategy session today to get personalized support for your spousal sponsorship application:  https://sisulegal.com/pages/booking-immigration-law-windsor-troy