Spousal Sponsorship

Reunite with your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner through Canadian family sponsorship

• Spouse and common-law partner sponsorship

• Conjugal partner sponsorship available

• Inland and outland application options

• Work permit while application is in process

• Leads to permanent residence

About Spousal Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence in Canada. The spousal sponsorship program is designed to keep families together and reflects Canada's commitment to family reunification. The sponsored person will become a permanent resident of Canada upon approval.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

• Spouse: Someone you are legally married to

• Common-law partner: Someone you have lived with for at least 12 consecutive months

• Conjugal partner: Someone you have been in a relationship with for at least 1 year but cannot live together due to immigration barriers or sexual orientation

Sponsor Eligibility

• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

• Must be at least 18 years old

• Must live in Canada (citizens living abroad may qualify in some cases)

• Must not be in default of any previous sponsorship undertaking

• Must not be receiving social assistance (except for disability)

• Must sign an undertaking to provide financial support

Application Types

Required Documents

• Completed application forms (IMM 1344, IMM 0008, etc.)

• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, photos, communications)

• Identity documents for both sponsor and applicant

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or PR status of sponsor

• Financial documents

• Police clearance certificates

• Medical examination results

• Biometrics for applicant

Processing Times (2025)

• Inland applications: Approximately 12 months

• Outland applications: Approximately 12 months (varies by visa office)