An introduction
Citizens and permanent residents of Canada can sponsor their spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners to live with them permanently in Canada. Couples often use this route to ensure their families can remain together.
Assessing Sponsorship Eligibility
The Sponsor’s Requirements
Sponsoring your spouse in Canada requires the following steps:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or Indians registered under the Canadian Indian Act.
- It is your responsibility to prove that you are not receiving social assistance (except for disabilities).
- Demonstrate your ability to meet your spouse’s basic needs (housing, food, and clothing).
Requirements for spouses
Sponsors must meet the following requirements:
- You must be legally married to the sponsor OR in a common-law/conjugal partnership with him or her.
- You must pass a criminal background check, a medical check, and a medical check.
- Neither be inadmissible nor subject to criminal sanctions.
Step 2: Select an Inland or Outland Sponsorship
The inland sponsorship program
- If your spouse already lives in Canada (on a visitor’s visa, for example), he or she can stay with you.
- While waiting for approval, they may be eligible for an Open Work Permit.
The Outland sponsorship program
- The spouse of yours lives outside of Canada.
- Visa applications are processed by the local visa office.
- During the processing of the application, they are still allowed to visit Canada.
Step 3: Obtain the required documents
Sponsors and spouses must prepare the following:
- Certificate of Marriage (proof of legal marriage).
- Relationship proof (photos, messages, travel records, joint accounts).
- Documents of identification (passports, birth certificates).
- Forms related to immigration (IMM 1344, IMM 5532, IMM 5406, etc.).
- Obtain a police clearance certificate from every country you have lived in for more than six months since you were 18.
- Examined by a physician who has been approved.
- The sponsor’s proof of income (employment letter, tax returns, bank statements).
Step 4: Complete & Submit the Application Forms
Here are a few key forms:
- IMM 1344 – Sponsorship Application, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking.
- IMM 5532 – Information on relationships and sponsorship evaluations.
- IMM 5406 – Additional information about the family.
- IMM 5669 – Schedule A: Background/Declaration.
To avoid delays, all forms must be filled out accurately.
Step 5: Make payment for the application
As of 2025, the typical fees are:
- Sponsorship fee: CAD $85
- Principal applicant processing fee: CAD $515
- Right of permanent residence fee (RPRF): CAD $575
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85
Total: About CAD $1,260 (may vary slightly).
Step 6: Application Submission
- Online applications can be submitted through the IRCC’s website.
- Make sure all supporting documents are included.
- Digital copies of proof of relationship, marriage certificate, and forms should be uploaded.
Step 7: Await Processing
- Processing time: Usually 12 months, though some cases can take less or more time.
IRCC may take the following actions during this period:
- More documents can be requested.
- Interview the couple if they have doubts about the relationship’s authenticity.
Step 8: Complete biometrics and medical exam requests
- Biometrics (fingerprints & photos) will be requested from the sponsored spouse.
- The IRCC also requires them to undergo a medical examination by a panel physician.
Step 9: Decision on the application
- Sponsored spouses receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can land in Canada as permanent residents.
- Applicants may appeal their refusal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if they are denied.
Step 10: After Approval – Moving to Canada
Upon the spouse’s arrival in Canada as a permanent resident:
- As proof of their status, they will receive a PR Card.
- No restrictions apply to their work or studies.
- Canadian Citizenship can be obtained after three years living in Canada out of five.
Here are some tips for submitting a successful application
- Obtain strong evidence of the relationship (joint bills, wedding photos, communication logs).
- Ensure that all statements and forms are consistent.
- Complete your application – missing documents cause delays.
- Consult an immigration lawyer or consultant if you are unsure.
Avoid these common mistakes
- The submission of fake or insufficient evidence of a relationship.
- Not paying the correct fees or forgetting to sign forms.
- Not informing IRCC of address or relationship changes.
- The presence of an authentic relationship is required instead of just marriage to guarantee approval.
In conclusion
Marriage Visa Sponsorships in Canada may seem complicated, but with the right preparation and documentation, the process is much simpler. Each step requires attention, from ensuring both the sponsor and spouse meet eligibility requirements to submitting accurate forms and proving a genuine relationship.
A year can pass between the time you submit your application and the time you receive your sponsorship. Despite the wait, the reward is worth it: permanent residency for your spouse, family reunion, and the chance to start a life together.
A successful outcome can be achieved by following the step-by-step guide carefully and avoiding common mistakes.
