Sponsor Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner

Sponsoring a Spouse or Partner in Canada: A Brief Overview

Canadian citizens or permanent residents can bring their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada as permanent residents under certain conditions.

Eligibility for Sponsor:

1. Must be 18 years or older.
2. Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act. Those living abroad should plan to return to Canada after the sponsorship.
3. Cannot be on social assistance (except due to disability) and must be financially stable.

Who Can You Sponsor:

1. Spouse: Must be legally married to the sponsor, at least 18 years old.
2. Common-Law Partner: Should be at least 18, not legally married, and lived with the sponsor for at least a year continuously. Proof of relationship includes joint bills, shared property, etc.
3. Conjugal Partner: Must have a 1-year relationship with the sponsor, be at least 18, and live outside Canada. They can’t live with or marry the sponsor in their home country due to legal or other significant barriers.

Key Points:

1. Sponsorship Agreement: Sponsors promise to financially support the sponsored. The sponsored must also attempt self-support.
2. Income Requirement: Typically, no income requirement for sponsoring a spouse/partner unless they have dependents with their own children.
3. Background Checks: The sponsored person and their family must clear background, security, and health checks.
4. Class of Application:
   • Family Class: Suitable for those living outside Canada or those in Canada but not staying during the application process.
   • Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class: For partners living in Canada with the sponsor, with valid immigration status, and seeking to work during the application process.

Sponsoring a partner allows Canadian residents to reunite with their loved ones and offers a path for their partners to contribute to and enjoy life in Canada.