Spouse or common-law partner sponsorship
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner for permanent residence, from inside or outside Canada.
Who this pathway suits
Couples in a genuine relationship where one partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who meets the sponsorship requirements.
Eligibility at a glance
- The sponsor is at least 18 and a Canadian citizen, registered Indian or permanent resident
- A genuine marriage, common-law relationship (usually one year of living together) or conjugal relationship
- The sponsor signs an undertaking to support the partner financially
- Neither partner is barred, for example by an earlier sponsorship or certain criminal convictions
How the process works
- Choose the inland or outland stream
- Submit the sponsorship and permanent residence applications together online
- Give biometrics, medicals and police certificates
- IRCC assesses the relationship and the sponsor's eligibility
- Interview if requested, then decision and landing
Documents you will typically need
- Marriage certificate or evidence of cohabitation
- Relationship evidence: photos, communication, joint finances
- Sponsor's status documents
- Police certificates and medical exam results
What to keep in mind
The relationship evidence is the core of the application. Inconsistencies between forms and documents are a common cause of refusal.
Frequently asked questions
Can my partner work while the application is processed?
Partners applying inside Canada may be eligible for an open work permit while the sponsorship is in process. Check the current IRCC conditions.
Official source: Official source. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
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