If you’re planning to bring your spouse or partner to Canada in 2025, this guide covers everything you need to know about spousal sponsorship—from eligibility requirements and application steps to timelines and tips to strengthen your application under Canada’s family reunification programme.
Understanding Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
What Is Spousal Sponsorship?
Spousal sponsorship is a key component of Canada’s Family Class immigration programme, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence. This pathway supports family reunification, one of the core goals of Canada’s immigration policy, administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
When approved, the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident of Canada and enjoys many of the same rights as Canadian citizens, including access to healthcare, the ability to work and study, and a pathway to Canadian citizenship.
Who Can Sponsor a Spouse or Partner?
To sponsor your spouse, common-law or conjugal partner to Canada, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act
- Be at least 18 years old
- Live in Canada or plan to return once your spouse becomes a permanent resident
- Not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability
- Be financially capable of providing the basic needs for your spouse or partner
If you’re a Canadian citizen living abroad, you must prove your intent to return to Canada when your spouse receives permanent residency.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor the following individuals under spousal sponsorship:
- Your legally married spouse
- Your common-law partner (must have lived together for at least 12 consecutive months)
- Your conjugal partner (must have been in a relationship for at least one year and be unable to live together due to exceptional circumstances)
The sponsored person must also meet eligibility requirements, including passing background, criminality, and medical checks.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship
There are two main streams under the spousal sponsorship programme:
Inland Sponsorship
This applies when the spouse/partner is already living in Canada, possibly on a temporary visa. Inland sponsorship allows the applicant to remain in Canada while the application is being processed. In many cases, the sponsored person may also apply for an open work permit.
Outland Sponsorship
Outland sponsorship is for spouses who are living outside Canada. These applications are processed through the visa office in the sponsored person’s home country. Outland applicants can visit Canada during processing, but their application will still be processed outside Canada.
Spousal Sponsorship Requirements in 2025
General Requirements for Sponsors
To sponsor your spouse or partner, you must meet these requirements in 2025:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian
- Not be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order (if a permanent resident), or charged with a serious offence
- Have no outstanding sponsorship undertakings or immigration loans
- Sign an undertaking to provide financial support for your spouse for 3 years from the date they become a permanent resident
Note: Unlike other family sponsorship programmes, there is no minimum income requirement to sponsor a spouse or partner.
Requirements for Sponsored Persons
The person being sponsored must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Not be inadmissible to Canada due to security, criminal, or health reasons
- Provide police certificates and medical exams as required by IRCC
- Be in a genuine relationship with the sponsor (marriage or partnership cannot be primarily for immigration purposes)
Proving the Relationship Is Genuine
One of the most critical aspects of the Canadian spousal sponsorship process is proving the authenticity of your relationship. IRCC takes marriage fraud seriously, and your application must include strong evidence, such as:
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship
- Photos of your life together (wedding, vacations, family gatherings)
- Joint bank accounts, leases, utility bills
- Correspondence (emails, messages, call logs)
- Affidavits from friends or family confirming your relationship
The Canadian Spousal Sponsorship Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Application
Start by downloading the most recent application package from the IRCC website. This includes:
- IMM 5289 – Document Checklist
- IMM 1344 – Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking
- IMM 5532 – Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation
- IMM 0008 – Generic Application Form for Canada
Carefully review the checklist and gather all required documents, including identification, relationship proof, police certificates, and medical exam receipts.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fees
As of 2025, the estimated fees for sponsoring a spouse are:
- $85 – Biometrics Fee
- $515 – Right of Permanent Residence Fee
- $570 – Sponsorship Fee
- $570 – Principal Applicant Processing Fee
Fees are paid online through the IRCC website. Keep the payment receipt as proof.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Send your complete application package by mail or courier to the address listed on the IRCC website. Make sure you submit all required forms and supporting documents to avoid delays or refusals.
Step 4: Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Background Checks
After submission, the sponsored person will receive a biometric instruction letter. They must complete biometrics at an approved location. A medical exam and police certificates from all countries where they’ve lived for six months or more are also required.
Step 5: Processing and Decision
IRCC will review your application and may request additional documents or an interview. If approved, the sponsored person will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and instructions for final steps.
Spousal Sponsorship Timeline in 2025
The Canada spouse visa processing time can vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence, case complexity, and IRCC workload. As of early 2025, the average spousal sponsorship timeline is approximately 12 months.
However, delays can occur due to missing documents, background checks, or relationship verification. To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete, accurate, and well-documented.
Tips to Strengthen Your Spousal Sponsorship Application
1. Submit a Complete Application
Incomplete applications are one of the leading causes of delays or rejections. Double-check your forms, ensure all fields are correctly filled, and use the official document checklist.
2. Include Substantial Relationship Evidence
IRCC examines each case closely to confirm the relationship is genuine. The more documentation you provide, the better. Think beyond photos—show your shared responsibilities, joint financial ties, and long-term commitment.
3. Apply for an Open Work Permit (Inland Applications)
If your spouse is in Canada, they may be eligible for an open work permit while the sponsorship application is being processed. This allows them to work legally in Canada, easing financial burdens and helping them integrate sooner.
4. Avoid Common Mistakes
Some common errors that applicants make include:
- Using outdated forms
- Failing to translate non-English/French documents
- Neglecting to sign forms
- Sending incorrect fee payments
Having your application reviewed by a professional can help avoid costly errors. You can also determine your eligibility and get guidance before starting.
5. Consider Professional Help
Navigating the Canadian spousal sponsorship process can be emotionally and administratively challenging. Working with regulated immigration consultants, like the experts at Immigration to Canada (EverNorth), ensures your application is handled with care and precision.
We offer a free immigration assessment to help you understand your options and improve your chances of success.
6. Keep IRCC Updated
If your circumstances change during the application process (e.g., a change of address, birth of a child), notify IRCC immediately. Failing to do so could result in delays or refusal.
7. Track Your Application Status
You can check the status of your spousal sponsorship application online through your IRCC account. This helps you stay informed and respond quickly to any requests from immigration officers.
The Emotional Side of Spousal Immigration to Canada
Family Reunification: A Core Canadian Value
Canada’s commitment to family reunification is one of the most compassionate aspects of its immigration system. The spouse visa Canada programme helps people build a life together in a safe and inclusive country, where love and family are valued.
Managing the Waiting Period
The wait time can be emotionally taxing for couples living apart. Staying connected through technology, planning visits (if possible), and keeping each other informed about the application process can help ease the stress.
Settling in Canada as a Couple
After receiving spouse PR Canada status, your partner will begin a new life in Canada. It’s important to prepare for this transition—finding housing, employment, and getting involved in the community. Many newcomers benefit from settlement services offered by provincial and federal programmes.
If you’re unsure where to begin, explore your Canadian immigration options and find out how we can help you take the next step.
EverNorth: Your Partner in Family Immigration
At Immigration to Canada (EverNorth), we understand how important it is to be with the one you love. Our experienced team supports thousands of families each year through the complex process of marriage sponsorship Canada and spousal immigration Canada.
We offer personalized guidance, document preparation, and application review services to ensure your case is handled professionally and compassionately. Begin your journey with a professional immigration evaluation today.
After Sponsorship Approval: What Happens Next?
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Once your spousal sponsorship Canada application is approved, your partner will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if outside Canada, a permanent resident visa. This document is crucial—it confirms their right to enter and settle in Canada as a permanent resident.
For outland sponsorships, your spouse must travel to a Canadian port of entry before the expiry date on the COPR and complete the landing process. For inland sponsorships, the landing typically occurs through an in-Canada landing appointment or via mail-in confirmation.
Landing in Canada as a Permanent Resident
At the port of entry or IRCC office, the sponsored person must present:
- Valid passport
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- Permanent resident visa (if applicable)
- Proof of funds (if requested)
An immigration officer will verify your documents, ask a few questions, and finalize the immigration process. Your spouse will officially become a Canadian permanent resident.
Receiving the PR Card
Once landed, your spouse will receive their permanent resident (PR) card by mail within a few weeks. It serves as official proof of status in Canada and is required for international travel. Ensure your mailing address is current and accurate to avoid delivery issues.
Healthcare, SIN, and Settlement Services
After becoming a permanent resident, your spouse can:
- Apply for a provincial health card (each province has its own rules)
- Request a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work legally
- Access free settlement services such as language classes, job search help, and community orientation
Check with your provincial or territorial government for local programmes and timelines.
Common Challenges in Spousal Sponsorship Applications
Misrepresentation or Incomplete Information
Providing inaccurate or misleading information can lead to serious consequences, including application refusal or a five-year ban on sponsorship. Always be honest and transparent in your application. If you’re unsure, consider a professional immigration evaluation to reduce the risk of errors.
Insufficient Relationship Evidence
IRCC will not approve a spouse visa Canada application if they suspect the relationship is not genuine. Often, couples underestimate the level of proof required. Remember, even legally married couples must show they’re in a committed, ongoing relationship. Include a variety of documents and explain your story clearly.
Delayed Processing or Requests for Additional Documents
IRCC may ask for more evidence or schedule an interview if they need clarification. This can stretch your spousal sponsorship timeline. To avoid delays:
- Submit a complete application with all required documents
- Respond promptly to IRCC requests
- Stay organized and keep copies of everything submitted
Eligibility Concerns for Sponsor or Sponsored Person
If either party has a criminal record, health issue, or past immigration violation, this may affect the application. In such cases, it’s essential to consult with a regulated immigration consultant who can guide you through the complexities of Canadian immigration pathways.
How to Sponsor Your Spouse from Specific Countries
Country-Specific Requirements
While the general process is the same, certain countries may have unique documentation requirements or longer processing times. For example:
- Some countries require additional civil documents, such as marriage registration certificates or notarized affidavits
- Police clearance may take longer in some jurisdictions
- Visa offices may require in-person interviews or additional forms
The visa office instructions for your spouse’s country of residence should be reviewed carefully. These are available on the IRCC website and must be followed in addition to the general application guide.
Translation and Document Certification
If any documents are not in English or French, they must be translated by a certified translator. Include both the translation and the original document. IRCC also requires an affidavit from the translator if they are not certified.
Tips for Long-Distance Couples
If you’re living apart during the application process, it’s important to maintain regular communication and gather proof of ongoing interaction. This includes:
- Phone logs and video call screenshots
- Emails, messages, and letters
- Travel records (boarding passes, visa stamps)
- Photos from visits and shared holidays
These help demonstrate that your relationship is active and genuine, a key requirement for spousal immigration Canada.
Maintaining Sponsorship Obligations
Financial Responsibility
As a sponsor, you are legally obligated to financially support your spouse for three years after they become a permanent resident. This undertaking remains in effect even if the relationship ends.
You cannot sponsor someone else during this period, and failure to meet your obligations can impact future sponsorship applications. Make sure you understand the full extent of your responsibilities before signing the undertaking.
What Happens If the Relationship Breaks Down?
If a relationship ends after permanent residency is granted, your spouse retains their PR status. However, if IRCC suspects misrepresentation or marriage fraud, they may investigate and, in rare cases, revoke PR status.
If you’re unsure about your rights or obligations, it’s best to assess your immigration options with a qualified consultant.
Can You Withdraw a Sponsorship Application?
Yes, you can withdraw your spousal sponsorship application anytime before the person becomes a permanent resident. However, if IRCC has already approved the application, it may be too late to cancel the process.
If you suspect the relationship is no longer valid or have concerns, contact IRCC immediately and seek legal advice.
Alternative Family Sponsorship Options
Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship
Besides spousal sponsorship, Canada allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor parents and grandparents. This programme has an annual intake and specific income requirements. The application process is separate from marriage sponsorship Canada.
Dependent Child Sponsorship
If you and your spouse have children together or from previous relationships, you may be able to sponsor them as part of your spousal sponsorship or through a separate application.
Children must be under 22 years of age and not married or in a common-law relationship to qualify as dependants.
Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs) and Family Support
Some provinces offer streams under their PNPs that support family reunification. For example, Manitoba and Saskatchewan have family support categories that allow permanent residents to nominate relatives, including spouses, for immigration.
To learn more about these options, explore the immigration to Canada process and how provincial programmes might apply to your case.
Why Work with a Canadian Immigration Consultant?
Benefits of Professional Guidance
While many applicants manage the process independently, working with a regulated immigration consultant can offer peace of mind—especially for complex cases. Consultants stay up-to-date with IRCC policy changes, understand documentation requirements, and can help avoid costly mistakes.
Who Should Consider Professional Help?
You may benefit from professional assistance if:
- Your relationship includes complex elements (e.g., previous marriages, cross-cultural issues)
- You or your spouse have a criminal record or medical condition
- Your application was previously refused
- You’re unsure how to prove your relationship is genuine
At Immigration to Canada (EverNorth), we’ve helped thousands of families reunite through the Canadian spousal sponsorship process. Our services are tailored to your needs, and we offer a free immigration assessment to get you started.
What to Expect from EverNorth
When you choose EverNorth, you get:
- One-on-one consultations with certified immigration professionals
- Document preparation and review
- Application tracking and updates
- Support through interviews and IRCC correspondence
We’re here to help you navigate every step of the journey with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Conclusion: Reunite with Your Loved One in Canada
Bringing your partner to Canada through the spousal sponsorship Canada programme is a life-changing decision. While the process can be detailed and emotional, it’s built on the strong Canadian value of keeping families together.
Whether you’re sponsoring your husband, wife, or partner to Canada, it’s essential to follow the correct steps, provide thorough documentation, and prepare for the journey ahead. With the right information—and the right support—you can build a future together in one of the most welcoming countries in the world.
If you’re ready to begin or want to make sure you’re on the right path, determine your eligibility today. EverNorth is here to support your journey with expert advice and compassionate service every step of the way.
To learn more about Canadian immigration pathways, including spousal and family sponsorship, visit our website and explore how we can help you reunite with your loved one.
