Canada · family
Spousal / common-law sponsorship (Canada)
Permanent residence sponsorship of spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners by Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
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Overview
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence. Two streams: inland (applicant already in Canada) and outland (consular processing).
Government fees
CAD 1,205 (principal) including RPRF.
Typical duration
Permanent residence.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Sponsor is Canadian citizen or PR.
Genuine relationship evidence.
No minimum income for spousal sponsorship (unlike parent sponsorship).
Common blockers
Sponsor undertaking bankruptcy or previous sponsorship default.
Insufficient relationship evidence.
Typical evidence
Marriage certificate or cohabitation history.
Photos, communications, joint finances.
Application pathway
Step 1
Choose inland vs outland
Inland lets applicant apply for open work permit; outland typically faster.
Step 2
Submit sponsorship + PR application together
Combined package.
Step 3
Biometrics and interview if required
Decision typically within 12 months.
Step 4
Land as PR
Inland applicants may already be in Canada.
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum income for spousal sponsorship?
No. Spousal and common-law partner sponsorship does not have a minimum income requirement. Parent and grandparent sponsorship does.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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