How to Fill Out an Application for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
Canada offers a Spousal Sponsorship program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence. While this process can be complex, understanding the step-by-step application process can make it much easier.
This guide will provide detailed instructions on how to fill out the spousal sponsorship application correctly and ensure a smooth process.
Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Sponsorship Application
Before applying, it’s important to understand who can be a sponsor and who can be sponsored.
Who Can Be a Sponsor?
To be eligible, the sponsor must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act
Not be in prison, bankrupt, or under a removal order
Not have defaulted on previous sponsorship undertakings
Meet financial requirements (if applicable)
Who Can Be Sponsored?
The person being sponsored must be:
Legally married to the sponsor OR
In a common-law relationship (living together for at least one year) OR
In a conjugal relationship (special circumstances preventing them from living together)
At least 18 years old.
Able to provide required documents, including proof of identity, medical exams, and police clearance certificates.
Financial Requirements
There is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship, but the sponsor must not be receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits) and must prove that he is financially capable of supporting the sponsored partner as stated in the signed undertaking.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship Applications
There are two main types of spousal sponsorship applications in Canada:
Inland Sponsorship
The sponsored spouse is already in Canada.
They are eligible for an open work permit while waiting for approval.
Ideal for couples who wish to remain together in Canada during the application process.
However, inland applicants can also choose to apply through the outland process (Family Sponsorship) if the sponsored spouse needs to travel during processing. In this case, they would not be eligible for an open work permit.
Outland Sponsorship
The sponsored spouse is residing outside Canada.
Processed under the Family Class category.
Generally, it has faster processing times compared to inland applications.
Required Documents for Spousal Sponsorship Application
A complete application for spousal sponsorship in Canada requires supporting documents from both the sponsor and the sponsored spouse.
Documents from the Sponsor:
Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence.
Last three years Notice of Assessment.
Financial documents, if available such as bank statements, Job letter etc.
Signed sponsorship agreement and undertaking forms.
Documents from the Sponsored Spouse:
Passport or travel documents.
Birth certificate.
Medical examination results.
Police clearance certificates.
Proof of Relationship:
Marriage certificate or proof of common-law partnership.
Photos together, travel records, and joint financial accounts.
Affidavits from family and friends confirming the relationship.
How to Fill Out the Spousal Sponsorship Application Forms
The application for spousal sponsorship in Canada includes several forms that must be completed correctly:
Key Forms:
IMM 1344 – Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking: Completed by the sponsor.
IMM 5532 – Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation: Details about the couple’s relationship.
IMM 0008 – Generic Application Form for Canada: Completed by the sponsored spouse.
IMM 5406 – Additional Family Information: Information about the spouse’s family.
IMM 5669 – Background/Declaration: Personal history of the sponsored spouse.
IMM 5562- Travel History: Provide details of all trips taken by the sponsored spouse outside their home country.
Mistakes or missing information in these forms can lead to delays or rejections, so double-check everything before submission.
Proving the Genuineness of Your Relationship
One of the most critical aspects of an application for spousal sponsorship in Canada is proving that your relationship is real and not just for immigration purposes.
Acceptable Proof:
Photos from different life events.
Joint bank accounts, lease agreements, or bills showing shared finances.
Communication records such as messages, emails, or call logs.
Statements from friends and family confirming the relationship.
Paying the Application Fees
All fees must be paid before submitting the application for spousal sponsorship in Canada.
Fee Breakdown:
Sponsorship fee: CAD 85
Principal applicant processing fee: CAD 545
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 575
Biometrics fee (if required): CAD 85
Total cost: CAD 1,290 (subject to change).
Fees can be paid online through the IRCC website.
Submitting the Spousal Sponsorship Application
After completing the forms and gathering the documents, the application for spousal sponsorship in Canada can be submitted Online through PR Portal.
Processing Times and Next Steps
Processing Times:
The estimated processing times are as follows:
Inland applications: 6–18 months
Outland applications: 3–12 months
However, it is always advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date processing times, as they can vary depending on the applicant’s country and the volume of applications being processed.
What Happens After Approval?
The sponsored spouse receives Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
If applying from outside Canada, they must land in Canada before their visa expires.
If applying from within Canada, their PR card will be mailed to them.
Conclusion
The Applying for spousal sponsorship in Canada is a detailed process, but with proper documentation and accurate form completion, you can successfully reunite with your loved one. Be sure to follow all steps carefully to avoid delays or rejections. If you have any doubts, consider consulting an expert immigration consultant or lawyer for guidance.
FAQs About Spousal Sponsorship Applications
1. Can I apply for spousal sponsorship if I am unemployed?
Yes, as long as you are not receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits). However, you must provide proof of your financial ability to meet the sponsorship obligations.
2. Can my spouse visit Canada while the application is being processed?
Yes, but they must apply for a visitor visa and demonstrate that they will leave Canada if required.
3. What happens if my application is delayed?
You can track your application status online or contact IRCC for updates through their web form or phone support.
4. Can I withdraw my sponsorship application?
Yes, you can withdraw your application. However, processing fees may not be refundable if IRCC has already started processing it.
