Family reunification remains one of the most significant immigration pathways for newcomers to Canada, ranking second only to economic immigration. In 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to welcome 114,000 new permanent residents through family-based pathways, including spousal sponsorship, sponsorship for children and dependents, as well as for parents and grandparents.
Understanding Spousal Sponsorship
Sponsoring a spouse or partner allows foreign nationals to join their Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse or partner in Canada, eventually becoming permanent residents themselves. There are two pathways for spousal sponsorship:
- Inland Sponsorship: For those already in Canada.
- Outland Sponsorship: For those applying from outside the country.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
To sponsor a spouse or partner, the sponsor must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian permanent resident living in Canada or a Canadian citizen.
- Not be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order, or charged with a serious offense.
- Have not been sponsored as a spouse within the last five years.
Sponsors are also required to sign a financial undertaking, meaning they are legally responsible for supporting their spouse or partner’s basic needs (food, shelter, healthcare, etc.) for up to three years, even if the relationship ends.
Determining Relationship Eligibility
The relationship between the sponsor and the sponsored individual must fall under one of the following categories:
- Spouse: Legally married.
- Common-law partner: Lived together for at least 12 consecutive months in a marriage-like relationship.
- Conjugal partner: In a committed relationship for over 12 months but unable to cohabit due to barriers such as immigration or cultural/religious restrictions.
IRCC aims to process spousal sponsorship applications, both Inland and Outland, within 12 months.
Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship
- Inland Sponsorship: Spouses or partners already living in Canada must have valid temporary resident status. They can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) when submitting their permanent residence application. Applicants should remain in Canada during the process, as leaving the country could jeopardize re-entry.
- Outland Sponsorship: This option suits couples living apart or those in Canada who anticipate needing to leave temporarily. The foreign national can travel between Canada and their home country while waiting for a decision, provided they meet all other spousal sponsorship requirements.
This streamlined approach to family reunification in Canada highlights the importance of understanding the requirements and making informed decisions when sponsoring loved ones for immigration.