The Canada spousal sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada as a permanent resident.
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Update: Last verified March 12, 2026.
Who Can Sponsor?
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents aged 18+
- Able to provide basic financial support
- Not currently being sponsored
Who Can Be Sponsored?
- Spouse (legally married partner)
- Common-law partner (12+ consecutive months cohabitation)
- Conjugal partner (committed relationship of 1+ year, unable to cohabit due to immigration barriers)
Inland vs Outland Sponsorship
Inland: For spouses already in Canada on valid temporary status. They can apply for an open work permit while waiting. Average processing: 12 months.
Outland: Processed through a Canadian visa office. Applicant remains in home country. Average processing: 12–18 months.
Required Documents
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship
- Proof of sponsor’s citizenship or PR status
- Passport copies for both parties
- Police certificates from all countries lived in for 6+ months since age 18
- Medical examination from an IRCC-designated physician
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