Canada Spousal Sponsorship Guide 2025 to Bring Your Partner to Canada
Are you planning to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner to live with you in Canada? The Canada Spousal Sponsorship program is one of the most popular immigration pathways for reuniting families. In this detailed 2025 guide, we walk you through eligibility, application steps, timelines, documents, and expert tips to ensure a smooth process.
👫 What is Spousal Sponsorship in Canada?
Spousal sponsorship allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residency in Canada. This program is part of Canada’s commitment to family reunification.
✅ Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor:
A legal spouse (married to you)
A common-law partner (living together for at least 12 consecutive months)
A conjugal partner (in an ongoing relationship for at least 1 year, but unable to live together due to external barriers like immigration laws)
🧑💼 Who Can Sponsor a Spouse or Partner?
To sponsor, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Be living in Canada (or plan to return once the partner gets PR)
Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability reasons)
Be financially capable of supporting your spouse for at least 3 years
Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying. Read our comprehensive guide on Requirements for Canada Spousal Sponsorship Program for detailed information.
🏠 Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship: What's the Difference?
| Inland Sponsorship | Outland Sponsorship |
|---|---|
| Spouse is already in Canada | Spouse is outside Canada |
| Can apply for an open work permit | Processed through visa office abroad |
| May take longer | Typically faster if spouse is overseas |
Did you know you might qualify for an open work permit while waiting? Learn more about the process here: Open Work Permit with Spousal Sponsorship Inland Canada.
📋 Required Documents for Canada Spousal Sponsorship
Here’s a general list (varies slightly depending on the situation). For a complete document checklist, visit our dedicated guide on Required Documents for Canada Spousal Sponsorship.
Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship
Identity documents (passports, IDs)
Photos of relationship (wedding, travel, daily life)
IMM 1344 (Application to Sponsor)
IMM 5532 (Relationship questionnaire)
IMM 5406 (Additional family info)
Police certificates and medical exam results
📝 How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Download & Complete Application Package from IRCC’s website
Gather Supporting Documents (translated if needed)
Pay Application Fees Online (about $1,080 CAD)
Submit Your Application by mail or online (check updated instructions)
Wait for Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)
Complete Medical and Biometrics if requested
Get the Final Decision – You’ll be notified when approved!
⏱️ How Long Does Spousal Sponsorship Take in 2025?
rocessing times vary. As of early 2025:
Inland sponsorship: ~12 months
Outland sponsorship: ~10–12 months
Keep in mind delays may occur if documents are missing or the relationship is under further review.
🚫 Common Reasons for Refusal
Insufficient relationship proof
Incomplete application forms
Missing translations
Criminal inadmissibility
Marriage not recognized under Canadian law
✅ Tip: Always double-check forms, include plenty of photos and communication proof, and submit a strong cover letter explaining your relationship history.
One of the most common reasons for refusal is insufficient proof of relationship. Learn how to prove a genuine relationship in our in-depth guide here: How to Prove a Genuine Relationship for Spousal Sponsorship.
💵 Fees for Canada Spousal Sponsorship
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Sponsorship Fee | $85 |
| Principal Applicant Processing | $515 |
| Right of Permanent Residence | $575 |
| Biometrics (if required) | $85 |
Always check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date application fees.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s spousal sponsorship program offers a powerful opportunity to reunite families and build a future together in the country. If you’re planning to sponsor your spouse in 2025, being well-prepared and submitting a strong, complete application is the key to success.
Need help with your application? Reach out to a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to guide you through the process.
For more expert advice on avoiding application rejection, check out our post: Spousal Sponsorship Canada: Expert Tips to Avoid Application Rejection.
