Reuniting your family is often the top priority. Whether your spouse lives abroad or is already in Canada, sponsorship is the path to living together permanently. Everyone asks the same question: how long does it take? The honest answer is “it depends” — but here are the benchmarks to help you plan.
The two types of spousal sponsorship
There are two situations: sponsoring a spouse who lives abroad, and sponsoring a spouse already in Canada. The process, timelines and your rights during processing differ between them. In Quebec, there is an added step: after the federal approval of the undertaking, the file goes through the Quebec authorities for selection.
What affects the timeline
Several factors lengthen or shorten processing: how complete your file is at submission, how clearly you prove the relationship, your spouse’s country of residence, and current processing volumes. A complete, well-prepared file from the start is the best way to avoid delays.
How to avoid avoidable delays
Most delays come from incomplete files or relationship evidence deemed insufficient. Gathering the right documents early — proof of cohabitation, communications, dated photos, shared financial records — and submitting a consistent application greatly reduces the risk of a request for additional documents, which can add months.
Your rights during processing
Depending on your situation, your spouse may in some cases apply for a work permit while an in-Canada application is being processed. Rules change: it is important to check your eligibility at the time of filing rather than relying on older information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor my partner if we are not married?
Yes, in many cases a common-law or conjugal partner can be sponsored, provided the relationship is demonstrated according to the applicable criteria.
Do I need a minimum income to sponsor my spouse?
Unlike parent sponsorship, spousal sponsorship generally does not require an income threshold, but other conditions apply.
What happens if my application is refused?
Depending on the type of application, a right of appeal or other options may exist. A regulated professional can assess your situation.
Thinking I was able to reclaim all of my possessions and get my status restored thanks to their legal firm. This legal firm is helping me a lot and thanks to visarzo to build this kind of consultant.
James Thomas
Thinking about sponsoring your spouse? Our regulated professionals will assess your situation and explain the steps during a consultation.
2015/16 thematic Priorities:
In 2014-15, the FCO supported more than 70 projects in more than 40 countries; looking ahead to 2015-16, we can only expect those numbers to rise.
- The death penalty should be abolished.
- Women's Rights
- Consequat Freedom of religiont
- Ipsum dolor Democratic process
- Sed do Global torture prevention
Our Capabilities For Visa & Immigration
In 2014-15, the FCO supported more than 70 projects in more than 40 countries; looking ahead to 2015-16, we can only expect those numbers to rise. We are eager to receive bids for creative initiatives that address our ongoing human rights concerns and respond to global trends as the opportunity for new project proposals opens. .
Due to the emergence of extreme rhetoric, the expanding involvement of business in human rights, and the reduction of civil society space, a number of our thematic objectives - Freedom of Religion or Belief, Business and Human Rights, and Freedom of Expression - are taking on even more importance.
