A Complete Guide to the Spousal Sponsorship Process in Canada
Spousal sponsorship is a popular immigration option for those wanting to reunite with their partners in Canada. This post will guide you through the key steps of the spousal sponsorship application process, from determining eligibility to applying and tracking.
An Overview of Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
It enables citizens or permanent residents of Canada to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence. This application will have to be submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as a whole package.
Eligibility Requirements
Before starting your application, ensure both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse meet the eligibility requirements:
The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and at least 18 years of age.
The sponsored spouse must be in a genuine relationship with the person sponsoring them.
Both parties must pass background checks and medical exams.
The spousal sponsorship Application Package
The spousal sponsorship application package consists of several forms and supporting documents. The major components are:
- Sponsorship application
- Permanent residency application
- Relationship questionnaire
- Proof of relationship
- Financial documents
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical test reports
Spousal sponsorship Application Process
Prepare all the required documents
Fill out the application forms correctly
Pay the application fee online
Submit the application package to IRCC
Appear to provide biometrics if requested
Appear for an interview if asked to do so
Tracking
Following your submission, you will be able to check your spousal sponsorship application status on an online basis using your application number. You can link your application to your GCKey account to make it easy to get updates and communications from IRCC.
Common Rejection Reasons
Keep an eye out for certain potentially detrimental aspects that might lead towards your application being rejected:
Incomplete documentation
Insufficient proof of genuine relationship
Inadmissibility problems
Ineligibility of the sponsor due to financial reasons
When to Seek Professional Help
When the process seems overwhelming, it may be worth engaging the services of an immigration professional. Sanjay Prasher, a qualified immigration consultant in North York, Toronto, specializes in spousal sponsorship applications and can provide expert guidance throughout the process1.
Final Thoughts
However lengthy and complicated it may seem to be, taking care to work the process thoroughly will enhance your success. Take note of processing times, keep documents current, and seek professional help whenever deemed proper.
Do keep in mind that that is what spousal sponsorship is about-reuniting families. Patience and proper preparation can see one through this process and take the first steps towards a new life together in Canada.
Obtaining and applying for Canadian citizenship can be a long and labour-intensive process as law changes very fast. We keep you posted on citizenship application requirements. We are your Citizenship application process immigration consultant.
If you and your same-sex common-law partner have lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least a year, you can sponsor them. Generally, you must provide proof of this union, such as joint financial records, property, mail, or purchases. You can sponsor your same-sex partner if you have been in a conjugal relationship for at least one year
Call Us 416-542-1000 We offer free consultations
