How long does spousal sponsorship take?

IRCC publishes processing standards that change over time and vary by route and country of residence. No timeline can be promised.

Is there an income requirement for spousal sponsorship?

A minimum necessary income requirement generally does not apply to spouse, partner or dependent child sponsorship, but it does apply to parent and grandparent sponsorship. Exceptions and details matter.

Can my spouse work while waiting?

Open work permit options may exist for certain inland applicants. Eligibility depends on current policy and your status in Canada.

What is a Super Visa?

It is a multi-entry visitor visa for parents and grandparents allowing longer stays, with requirements including medical insurance and an invitation supported by income evidence.

Family members embracing at a Canadian airport arrivals hall

Permanent residence

Family Sponsorship

Family applications are personal. They deserve to be prepared with care, respect and thorough evidence.

Check Your Eligibility Book Appointment

Overview

What this pathway involves

Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet eligibility requirements may sponsor certain family members for permanent residence. The most common categories are spouses, common-law or conjugal partners, and dependent children.

Parents and grandparents may be sponsored through a separate program that operates on a limited intake basis. The Super Visa is an alternative long-stay visitor option for parents and grandparents who meet its requirements.

Sponsors generally sign an undertaking to provide financial support for a defined period, and must meet requirements relating to income for certain categories, residency, and eligibility.

Who it may suit

This route is often considered by

Spouses and partners applying from inside or outside Canada
Parents sponsoring dependent children
Citizens and permanent residents exploring parent or grandparent sponsorship
Families needing help documenting a genuine relationship clearly and respectfully

Key considerations

Things worth knowing early

Relationship evidence is central

Officers assess whether a relationship is genuine and was not entered into primarily for immigration purposes. Evidence should be organised, consistent and truthful.

Inland and outland routes differ

Where an application is processed affects work permit options, travel considerations and appeal rights. The right choice depends on your situation.

Sponsor eligibility

Certain past sponsorships, defaults, or convictions may affect a sponsor's eligibility. This should be reviewed honestly at the outset.

Parent and grandparent intake is limited

Intake mechanisms for this program vary by year and are subject to caps and announcements from IRCC.

Process

How we work through it with you

Eligibility review for both parties
We assess the sponsor and the person being sponsored against current requirements.
Evidence gathering
We provide a structured, respectful list of relationship, identity and financial documents suited to your circumstances.
Preparation and submission
We assemble the sponsorship and permanent residence applications together, checking for consistency.
Post-submission support
We support you through interviews, additional document requests and procedural fairness responses if they arise.

FAQs