If you're a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, sponsoring your spouse for immigration to Canada is an important step in reuniting your family or allowing your family to stay together. The process may seem complex at first, but understanding the steps and requirements can make it more manageable. This guide will walk you through the process, eligibility criteria, and key details you need to know to sponsor your spouse successfully.

How to Sponsor Your Spouse for Canadian Immigration in 2025

What Is Spousal Sponsorship?

Spousal sponsorship is a program under Canada’s Family Class immigration category. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to become a permanent resident of Canada. The goal is to help families stay together by enabling sponsored spouses to live, work, and settle in Canada.

Eligibility to Sponsor Your Spouse

To sponsor your spouse, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

1. Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
   You must prove your status in Canada. Citizens living abroad can also sponsor their spouse, provided they plan to return to Canada once the application is approved.

2. Be at Least 18 Years Old
   Both the sponsor and the sponsored individual must be 18 or older.

3. Not Be in Default of Previous Sponsorship Undertakings
   If you have failed to fulfill sponsorship commitments in the past, you may not be eligible.

4. Have No Recent Bankruptcy or Social Assistance
   You cannot be bankrupt or receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits).

5. Meet Financial Requirements
   While there is no income threshold for spousal sponsorship, you must demonstrate that you can financially support your spouse if necessary.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

You can sponsor a:

• Spouse: Legally married to you.

• Common-law Partner: Has lived with you in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 months without interruption.

• Conjugal Partner: Lives outside Canada and has been in a relationship with you for at least one year but cannot live with you due to significant barriers (e.g., cultural or legal restrictions).

The relationship must be genuine, and IRCC will thoroughly assess this aspect to prevent fraudulent applications.

The Sponsorship Process

1. Determine Your Eligibility and Gather Documents
   Ensure you meet all requirements and have the necessary documents, such as:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence.

• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, photos, correspondence).

• Passport and travel history of the sponsored person.

2. Complete the Application Package
   The IRCC provides a sponsorship application package, which includes:

• Sponsorship forms.

• Immigration forms for the sponsored person.

• A detailed guide of required documents. 

3. Pay the Application Fees
   The fees include:

• Sponsorship fee: CAD $75.

• Processing fee: CAD $490.

• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD $515 (paid later in the process).

• Fees may vary, so check the latest fee structure on the IRCC website.

4. Submit the Application
   Submit the complete application online or by mail, depending on IRCC's instructions. Incomplete or incorrect applications may be returned, causing delays.

5. Undergo Background Checks and Medical Exams
   The sponsored spouse must undergo background checks, security screenings, and a medical examination.

6. Wait for Processing
   Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence. As of 2024, spousal sponsorship applications typically take 12 months to process.

7. Approval and Arrival
   Once approved, the sponsored spouse will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document. They can then travel to Canada and officially become a permanent resident.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Submitting Incomplete Applications
   Missing documents or incorrectly completed forms can delay your application. Double-check everything before submission.

2. Failing to Prove a Genuine Relationship
   IRCC scrutinizes spousal sponsorships for fraud. Provide detailed evidence of your relationship, such as photos, chat logs, and joint financial records.

3. Ignoring Changes in Circumstances
   Inform IRCC immediately if your circumstances change, such as a change in address or marital status.

Can My Spouse Work While Waiting?

Yes! Your spouse can apply for an open work permit if they are already in Canada under a valid temporary status. This allows them to work while their sponsorship application is being processed, providing financial stability and a smoother transition.

Hiring an Immigration Lawyer

Hiring a licensed immigration lawyer can help simplify the process and ensure your application is error-free. We can assist with preparing documentation, understanding legal jargon, and responding to IRCC requests.

Conclusion

Sponsoring your spouse for Canadian immigration is a rewarding but detailed process. Working with our office can help you streamline the process and have peace of mind that you are submitting your best possible application. To get started on your immigration application, please schedule a strategy session with our office.