If you’re a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) and want to bring your spouse to live with you in Canada, you’re not alone. Thousands of couples successfully reunite each year through the Canadian PR sponsor spouse program. This family reunification option is designed to allow permanent residents or Canadian citizens to sponsor their legally married partner or common-law spouse for permanent residency.
Understand Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, it’s essential to confirm you meet the Canadian PR sponsor spouse eligibility criteria. As a sponsor, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada
- Not be receiving social assistance (excluding disability)
- Prove financial capability to support your spouse for three years
Your spouse must also meet eligibility requirements related to medical, security, and criminal background checks.
Choose Between Inland and Outland Sponsorship
There are two types of spousal sponsorship applications:
- Inland Sponsorship: For couples living together in Canada. Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit.
- Outland Sponsorship: For spouses living outside Canada or couples not currently cohabiting. Processing is often quicker, and appeals are allowed if denied.
Choosing the right stream depends on your unique situation, so evaluate it carefully.
Gather Required Documents
A key part of the Canadian PR sponsor spouse application is proving your relationship is genuine. You’ll need to collect and submit the following:
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, joint financial documents, communication records, photos)
- Identity documents (passports, birth certificates)
- Police clearance certificates from all countries your spouse has lived in for 6+ months since age 18
- Medical exam results from an IRCC-approved panel physician
- IMM forms, including IMM 1344 and IMM 5532 (sponsor and relationship details)
All documents not in English or French must be translated by a certified translator.
Complete the Application Package
Download the latest application package from the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Ensure all forms are filled out completely and truthfully. Missing information or unsigned forms can delay or even return your application.
Before submitting, double-check everything—incorrect information may lead to longer processing times.
Pay the Application Fees and Submit
The next step is to pay the required fees online, including processing, biometrics, and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). Once done, you’ll receive a receipt to include with your application.
You can submit your full application online via the IRCC portal or by mail, depending on the stream and specific instructions provided by IRCC.
Biometrics and Medical Examination
After submitting the application, your spouse will receive a request to provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). The medical exam should already be completed or arranged soon after applying to avoid delays.
Wait for Application Processing
Processing times for the Canadian PR sponsor spouse program vary but usually take 12 months or more. While waiting, IRCC may contact you or your spouse for more documents or even a relationship interview.
For inland applications, your spouse may apply for an open work permit once sponsorship is approved in principle, allowing them to live and work in Canada legally while awaiting PR status.
Receive the Final Decision
Once all requirements are met and the application is approved, your spouse will be granted permanent residency. For inland applications, a landing interview may be required. For outland cases, your spouse will receive instructions on how to complete the landing process at a Canadian port of entry.
Conclusion
Reuniting with your loved one through the Canadian PR sponsor spouse process may seem overwhelming, but with proper guidance and preparation, it’s entirely manageable. Understanding each step and submitting a strong, honest application gives you the best chance of success.
Whether you’re applying inland or outland, the goal remains the same—to build a future together in Canada. If needed, working with a trusted immigration consultant can offer peace of mind and ensure every detail is handled correctly.
