Who can sponsor in Canada?

You can sponsor your spouse or common-law partner if you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, over 18, and can financially support them.

What is a common-law relationship?

A common-law relationship means you’ve lived together for at least 12 months and can prove your commitment with shared documents and bills.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I live outside Canada?

Yes, you can use the outland sponsorship process, which allows your spouse to stay in their home country while waiting for approval.

How long does the common-low sponsorship process take?

It usually takes about 12 to 24 months, depending on your situation and the type of application.

Can my spouse work while we wait for approval?

If you apply inland, your spouse can apply for an open work permit to work in Canada while the application is processed.

Are there income requirements for sponsorship?

Yes, you need to show that you can financially support your partner, but the specific requirements can vary.

What if my application is refused?

You’ll receive a letter explaining why. You may be able to fix the issues and reapply.

Can I appeal a refusal?

Yes, you can appeal by contacting the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) within the required timeframe.

Is an interview part of the process?

Interviews aren't standard but may be requested if IRCC needs more information about your relationship.

Reunite with Your Loved One Through Spousal & Common-Law Sponsorship

Are you prepared to go to Canada with your common-law partner? Families can remain together while making contributions to society and the economy by using common-law sponsorship, which enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their partners for permanent residency. This route gives your spouse the chance to prosper in Canada in addition to facilitating a reunion.

Home / Permanent Residence / Spousal/Common-Law Sponsorship

What is Common-Law Sponsorship in Canada?

Your common-law spouse may be sponsored for permanent residency in Canada if you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. People who have lived together for at least 12 months in a row can come together and start a new life in Canada under common-law sponsorship. In addition to facilitating a reunion, this procedure gives your spouse the chance to support the Canadian economy while you both enjoy the benefits of living together in this country.

You can use shared lease agreements, joint financial records, and pictures of your time together as proof.

Do You Qualify for Sponsorship Under Common Law?

If you fit the following requirements, you can apply for common-law sponsorship:

For Sponsors: Sponsors must be over the age of 18, citizens or permanent residents of Canada, and not on social assistance (except disability). In Canada, you also need to prove that you can provide for your spouse financially.
For Applicants: Candidates must fulfill all admissibility standards and have been in a legitimate common-law relationship for a minimum of 12 months. Passing background checks and medical tests is part of this.

Spouse, Common-Law Partner, and Conjugal Partner

Understanding the meanings of spouse, common-law partner, and conjugal partner is crucial when discussing common-law sponsorship in Canada.

Spouse: A legitimate spouse recognized by Canadian law who must have a current marriage license to be sponsored as a common law partner. If you’re married outside of Canada, you must make sure you meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements.
Common-Law Partner: A common-law partner is someone you have lived with for a minimum of 12 months in a row. Evidence of shared responsibilities, including combined funds or living arrangements, is necessary for this partnership. To prove your common-law relationship, submit at least two of the following:

Shared address documentation (pay stubs, tax forms)
Joint property or rent agreements
Shared bank accounts
Utility bills in both names
Government-issued IDs
Car insurance documents
Birth certificates/adoption records for children
Relationship photos
Evidence from family and friends (letters, emails)

Conjugal Partner: A conjugal partner is someone you have a committed relationship with but are unable to live with because of certain issues, such as immigration restrictions.

To properly complete the common law sponsorship checklist and make sure your application satisfies Canadian immigration laws, it is essential to comprehend these categories. You can contact our immigration consultants to guide you through the process.

Support for Your Application: Handling Difficulties with Professional Guidance

Applications for common-law sponsorship may run into issues, including inadequate evidence of a connection or doubts about the sincerity of your collaboration. Our experts are there to assist you in navigating these intricacies, making sure that each step is carried out precisely to reduce the possibility of delays.
Why choose our immigration consultants? Our professionals offer individualized assistance during the whole application procedure and are specialists in common-law sponsorship matters. To facilitate your and your partner’s path to reunion, we make sure that your application conforms with Canadian immigration requirements.

How to Apply in Canada for Common-Law Sponsorship

How to apply for Express Entry in Canada? Let’s first check the programs under Express Entry.

Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP):For those who have worked abroad and want to move to Canada, the Federal Skilled Worker Program is the best option. Candidates are assessed by this software using a point system that takes into account their education, employment history, and skill set.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): The Federal Qualified Trades Program provides an immigration pathway for qualified tradespeople. Those having training in skilled trades such as plumbing, electrical work, or construction are eligible for this program.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Those who have obtained specialized work experience in Canada and want to apply for permanent residency are eligible to enroll in the Canadian Experience Class.

FAQs About Spousal Work Permits

Who can sponsor in Canada?
You can sponsor your spouse or common-law partner if you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, over 18, and can financially support them.
What is a common-law relationship?
A common-law relationship means you’ve lived together for at least 12 months and can prove your commitment with shared documents and bills.
Can I sponsor my spouse if I live outside Canada?
Yes, you can use the outland sponsorship process, which allows your spouse to stay in their home country while waiting for approval.
How long does the common-low sponsorship process take?
It usually takes about 12 to 24 months, depending on your situation and the type of application.
Can my spouse work while we wait for approval?
If you apply inland, your spouse can apply for an open work permit to work in Canada while the application is processed.
Are there income requirements for sponsorship?
Yes, you need to show that you can financially support your partner, but the specific requirements can vary.
What if my application is refused?
You’ll receive a letter explaining why. You may be able to fix the issues and reapply.
Can I appeal a refusal?
Yes, you can appeal by contacting the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) within the required timeframe.
Is an interview part of the process?
Interviews aren't standard but may be requested if IRCC needs more information about your relationship.

Take the First Step Toward Canadian Permanent Residency

To begin your path to permanent residence in Canada, get in touch with one of our Canada Express Entry experts right now. Ready to fast-track your application?