Step-by-Step Spousal Visa Process for Canada

Canada offers a spousal visa program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for immigration. This program is part of the Family Sponsorship category and is designed to reunite couples by granting the sponsored spouse or partner permanent residence (PR) in Canada.

If you are planning to sponsor your spouse to Canada, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the process, eligibility requirements, and necessary documents to ensure a successful application.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying, you must check whether you meet the eligibility criteria to sponsor your spouse. To be eligible:

✔ You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
✔ You must be at least 18 years old.
✔ You must prove that you can financially support your spouse’s basic needs (housing, food, and healthcare).
✔ You must not be receiving social assistance, except for disability support.
✔ You must not have been convicted of a violent or sexual crime.

If you meet these conditions, you can proceed with the sponsorship application.

Step 2: Choose the Right Sponsorship Category

Canada offers two types of spousal sponsorship applications:

1. Inland Sponsorship

• If your spouse is already in Canada on a temporary visa (e.g., visitor, student, or work visa).
• Your spouse can apply for an open work permit while waiting for PR approval.
• Recommended if you want to stay together during the process.

2. Outland Sponsorship

• If your spouse is living outside Canada at the time of application.
• The application is processed through a Visa Office in the spouse’s home country.
• This is usually faster than inland sponsorship but does not allow the spouse to work in Canada during processing.

Choose the right category based on your spouse’s location and circumstances.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

A complete application must include the following documents:

✔ Proof of Identity – Passport or travel document for the spouse.
✔ Marriage Certificate – Proof of legal marriage (if married).
✔ Proof of Common-Law Relationship – Joint bank accounts, lease agreements, utility bills (if common-law partners).
✔ Proof of Genuine Relationship – Wedding photos, messages, call logs, emails, or travel history together.
✔ Medical Examination – The sponsored spouse must undergo a medical exam by an IRCC-approved doctor.
✔ Police Clearance Certificate – From any country where the spouse has lived for more than six months.
✔ Financial Proof – The sponsor must provide bank statements, tax returns, or employment letters to show financial stability.

Incomplete documents can delay the processing time, so ensure all required documents are submitted correctly.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Once all documents are ready, submit your application through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

✔ Apply Online – Most applications are now submitted through the IRCC website.
✔ Pay Application Fees – The sponsorship fee is approximately $1,050 CAD (including biometric fees).
✔ Submit Biometrics – Fingerprints and photos may be required at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC).

After submission, IRCC will send an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR), confirming they have received your application.

Step 5: Application Processing and Interviews

The processing time for a spousal sponsorship application usually takes 8 to 12 months, but this may vary depending on the case.

During the review:
✔ IRCC may request additional documents if needed.
✔ Some applicants may be called for an interview at a Canadian Visa Office. The officer may ask questions about your relationship history to confirm its authenticity.

Providing truthful and complete information will help avoid delays or rejections.

Step 6: Approval and Permanent Residence (PR) Confirmation

If the application is approved, the sponsored spouse will receive:

✔ Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) – A document needed to enter Canada.
✔ Permanent Resident Visa (if required) – For spouses applying from outside Canada.

Once the spouse arrives in Canada, they must complete landing procedures and receive their PR card in the mail within a few months.

Step 7: Settling in Canada

After receiving permanent residence, your spouse can:

✔ Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.
✔ Access healthcare and other social benefits.
✔ Apply for Canadian citizenship after three years of residency.

As a sponsor, you must support your spouse financially for three years, even if the relationship ends.

Final Thoughts

Sponsoring a spouse to Canada is an exciting but detailed process that requires proper documentation and patience. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth application and successfully reunite with your loved one in Canada.

To avoid mistakes or rejections, consider consulting an immigration lawyer or consultant for professional guidance. Good luck.