This article will guide and teach you how your Canadian spouse can secure a Canada Permanent Residency for you, vouching for your relationship and your intention to live together in Canada.
To apply for spousal sponsorship for permanent residency in Canada, follow these step-by-step process. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the application:
1. Check Eligibility
Both the sponsor (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) and the sponsored spouse/partner must meet eligibility criteria.
Sponsor Requirements:
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Cannot be in prison, bankrupt, or under a removal order (if a permanent resident).
- Cannot have been convicted of certain crimes (such as crimes involving sexual offenses or violence against a partner). Sponsored Person Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be legally married to the sponsor or in a common-law or conjugal partnership.
- Must meet medical, criminal, and background checks.
2. Choose the Sponsorship Stream
There are two main types of applications based on where the spouse/partner is living:
- Inland Sponsorship: If the spouse/partner is already in Canada on a valid visa.
- Outland Sponsorship: If the spouse/partner is living outside Canada. They can also be in Canada but choose to process their application from outside. Inland sponsorship allows the sponsored spouse to apply for an Open Work Permit while the application is in process. Outland sponsorship tends to be faster for those living abroad and allows the spouse to travel while the application is being processed.
3. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need several documents to support your application:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (for married couples), proof of cohabitation (for common-law partners), photos together, travel records, chat logs, social media interactions, etc.
- Identity Documents: Passports, birth certificates, etc.
- Police Certificates: From any country where the sponsored person lived for six months or more after turning 18.
- Medical Examination: A medical exam from an approved panel physician.
- Other Supporting Documents: Documents showing that the sponsor meets financial support requirements, including tax returns, letters from employers, etc.
4. Complete the Application Forms
The application forms will vary depending on whether you are applying under the Inland or Outland sponsorship stream. Common forms include:
- Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking [IMM 1344]
- Generic Application Form for Canada [IMM 0008]
- Additional Family Information [IMM 5406]
- Schedule A – Background/Declaration [IMM 5669] Forms and a detailed checklist for your specific case are available on the official Government of Canada website.
5. Pay the Application Fees
You will need to pay the fees associated with your application, which may include:
- Processing fees for the sponsor and the person being sponsored.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (can be paid later in the process but will delay the final decision if not paid upfront).
- Fees for biometrics (if applicable). You can pay fees online using a credit card.
6. Submit the Application
After assembling all the documents and completing the forms, submit the entire package by mail or courier to the address provided in the guide. Ensure that everything is complete and correct to avoid delays.
7. Provide Biometrics (if required)
The sponsored spouse/partner may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the application process. You’ll be given instructions on how and where to do this.
8. Wait for Processing
- Inland Sponsorship: The average processing time is around 12 months.
- Outland Sponsorship: Processing times can vary depending on the visa office but are generally faster than Inland. You can check the status of your application online using your account.
9. Final Decision
If the application is approved, the sponsored spouse/partner will receive confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) and, if abroad, instructions for entering Canada as a permanent resident will be given. If in Canada, the final step is to attend a landing interview with an immigration officer.
Important Tips:
- Make sure to double-check all forms and documents before submission to avoid delays.
- Keep a copy of your complete application for your records.
- Use the official guide from the Government of Canada as the most accurate and updated source for forms and requirements.