If you are looking to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada, it is important to have a clear understanding of the process and requirements involved. The spousal sponsorship process can be a complex and time-consuming task, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can increase your chances of a successful sponsorship.
The first thing to be aware of is the current spousal sponsorship backlog. Due to the high volume of applications, processing times have been prolonged. Additionally, in December 2016, a spousal sponsorship bar was put in place that limits the number of sponsorship applications that can be submitted each year. This has resulted in longer processing times for many applicants.
When applying for spousal sponsorship, you will be required to provide certain documents such as a birth certificate, bank statement and biometrics. Biometrics include fingerprints and a photograph which will be used to confirm your identity. You will also be required to undergo a background check to ensure that you are not a security risk to Canada.
It is also important to be aware of country-specific requirements for spousal sponsorship. Some countries require a medical examination, which must be done before the application can be submitted. This will add additional time and cost to the process.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit your application through the Canada Portal. This is where you will submit your