Spousal sponsorship remains one of the most popular immigration pathways for families in Canada. In 2024, the process continues to offer a way for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones who are not Canadians and live abroad. Here's a comprehensive look at the requirements, timelines and key aspects of the spousal sponsorship 2024 process.
Spousal sponsorship is an immigration process that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner for permanent residency in Canada. This program is designed to reunite families by allowing partners to live together in Canada. The process involves both the sponsor and the sponsored person submitting applications, demonstrating the genuineness of their relationship and meeting various eligibility criteria, including financial support. The program includes provisions for both opposite-sex and same-sex couples.
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Spousal Sponsorship Requirements and Process
To sponsor your spouse, partner, or common-law partner to Canada, you must meet several key requirements:
- Eligibility: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and at least 18 years old. You must demonstrate the ability to support your spouse financially and ensure they do not require social assistance.
- Types of Relationships: The sponsorship program applies to legally married spouses, common-law partners and conjugal partners. This includes both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships.
- Application Process: The process involves two main parts: the sponsor applying to become a sponsor and the sponsored person applying for permanent residency. Both applications must be submitted together.
- Documentation: You will need to provide evidence of your relationship, identity documents, police certificates and other relevant paperwork.
- Medical and Background Checks: The sponsored person must undergo medical examinations and background checks as part of the process.
Timeline for Spousal Sponsorship
The processing time for spousal sponsorship applications can vary. As of 2024, typical processing times are around 12 months, but this can fluctuate based on factors such as:
- The completeness of the application
- Whether biometrics and other required documentation are promptly provided
- Any additional information requests by the immigration office
Check Processing Times
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has an online tool for checking the processing times for various immigration processes. The spousal sponsorship process time will vary based on application completeness, the volume of applications and other factors. Applicants should check current processing times to set realistic expectations.
Financial Requirements
Sponsors are required to meet financial criteria to ensure they can support their spouse or partner. However, there is no specific income threshold for spousal sponsorship, unlike other family sponsorship streams. You must show that you can meet the basic needs of your spouse and any dependents.
As of April 30, 2024, the total fee to sponsor a spouse or partner for Canadian immigration is $1,290 CAD, which includes the following fees:
- Sponsorship fee: $85
- Principal applicant processing fee: $545
- Right of permanent residence fee: $575
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo): $85
Additional fees may apply, including:
- $150 per dependent child included in the application
- $289 CAD if the sponsor lives in or intends to live in Quebec when permanent residence is issued
If the sponsorship application is refused, the applicant can choose to continue processing the application for permanent residence for their family members, but they won't receive a refund of the sponsorship fee.
Same-Sex Sponsorship
Canada recognizes same-sex marriages and partnerships for immigration purposes. The process and requirements are the same as for opposite-sex couples, ensuring equal treatment under the spousal sponsorship program.
Common-Law Partners
For common-law sponsorship, you must demonstrate that you have lived together continuously for at least 12 months in a conjugal relationship. Evidence such as joint leases, utility bills, and shared financial accounts can help establish the legitimacy of the relationship.
Spousal Open Work Permit
A Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is a type of work permit available to spouses or common-law partners of certain temporary workers and international students in Canada. It allows the spouse or partner to work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The SOWP aims to help families stay together and support themselves financially while their partner studies or works in Canada. This permit is typically valid for the same duration as the sponsoring partner's study or work permit.
Learn More:
- Is An Immigration Lawyer Needed for Spousal Sponsorship Approval?
- Applying For a Spousal Visa? How To Prove You Have a Real Marriage
- 3 Ways Your Foreign Partner Can Join You in Canada
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Do You Want to Sponsor Your Spouse or Partner to Join You In Canada?
Spousal sponsorship is a crucial avenue for reuniting families in Canada. It provides a path for partners to build a life together in this diverse and welcoming country. Understanding the requirements and preparing a thorough application can help ensure a smoother process.
If you’re considering sponsoring your spouse or partner, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer to navigate the complexities of the process and increase the chances of a successful application. An experienced Canada immigration lawyer can save you time, money and help to avoid stressful, costly delays or denials.
Whether you’re in a same-sex relationship, married or in a common-law partnership, it’s crucial to know the steps involved and prepare thoroughly. Call Ackah Business Immigration Law for detailed guidance and insights, and let an experienced immigration lawyer assist you in reuniting with your loved one in Canada. With offices in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver, we help clients across the globe make Canadian Dreams come true!
For personalized assistance, contact us today and take the first step toward bringing your family together in Canada! Ackah Law helps people move to new opportunities in Canada and the U.S. Contact Ackah Business Immigration Law at (587) 854-3866 or by email at contact@ackahlaw.com.
