If you’re married to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and want to live together in Canada, the Spousal Sponsorship Program (commonly called the Canada Marriage Visa) allows your partner to sponsor you for permanent residency. This guide explains the step-by-step process, requirements, processing times, and tips for success.

1. What is a Canada Marriage Visa?

The Spousal Sponsorship Visa is an immigration pathway that lets Canadian citizens or permanent residents sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence in Canada.

Key Features:

✅ Leads to Permanent Residency (PR) – Not just a temporary visa.
✅ Includes Work Permit Option – Eligible applicants can work while waiting.
✅ Allows Dependent Children – They can be included in the application.

2. Eligibility Requirements

A. Sponsor Requirements (Canadian Partner)

• Must be a Canadian citizen or PR holder

• Must be 18+ years old

• Must prove they can financially support the spouse for 3 years

• Cannot be on social assistance (unless disabled)

• Cannot have a criminal record or immigration violations

B. Sponsored Spouse Requirements (Applicant)

• Must be legally married or in a common-law relationship (living together for 12+ months)

• Must pass medical and criminal background checks

• Must prove the relationship is genuine (not for immigration purposes only)

3. Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Both sponsor and applicant must submit:
✔ Marriage certificate (or proof of common-law status)
✔ Proof of relationship (photos, chats, joint accounts, travel records)
✔ Police clearance certificates
✔ Medical exam results
✔ Sponsor’s financial documents (tax returns, employment letters)

Step 2: Submit the Application

• Sponsor fills out forms (IMM 1344, IMM 5532, etc.)

• Applicant completes PR forms (IMM 0008, IMM 5669, etc.)

• Pay fees: $1,080 CAD (Sponsorship fee + PR fee + biometrics)

Step 3: Application Processing

• IRCC checks eligibility (1-3 months for sponsor approval)

• Applicant gets biometrics & medical requests

• Background checks & interview (if required)

• Decision made (total processing time: 12-18 months)

Step 4: Landing in Canada

• If approved, the spouse gets a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

• Must enter Canada before COPR expires

4. Processing Time & Fees

Note: Outland applications (spouse outside Canada) may take longer than inland.

5. Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Avoid Them

❌ Relationship Not Genuine – Provide strong proof (wedding photos, joint leases, affidavits from family).
❌ Incomplete Application – Double-check all forms before submission.
❌ Sponsor Ineligible – Ensure the sponsor meets income requirements.
❌ Medical or Criminal Inadmissibility – Address health/legal issues beforehand.

6. Can You Work While Waiting?

Yes! If applying Inland Sponsorship, the spouse can submit an Open Work Permit (OWP) application with the PR file.

• OWP Processing Time: 4-6 months

• Allows work for any employer

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can we apply if we got married outside Canada?

✅ Yes! Canada recognizes legal marriages from any country.

Q2. What if we’re not married but living together?

✅ Common-law partners qualify if living together for 12+ months.

Q3. Can same-sex couples apply?

✅ Yes! Canada fully recognizes same-sex marriages.

Q4. What if my spouse is already in Canada on a visitor visa?

✅ You can apply for Inland Sponsorship + Open Work Permit.

Q5. Can I sponsor my spouse if I’m unemployed?

✅ Yes, but you must prove savings or a co-signer (if on social assistance, restrictions apply).

8. Tips for a Successful Application

✔ Apply Inland if Possible – Faster processing & work permit option.
✔ Submit Strong Relationship Proof – Avoid generic documents; show shared life.
✔ Hire an Immigration Lawyer (If Complex) – Helps with appeals or complicated cases.
✔ Check for Updates – IRCC rules change; verify requirements before applying.

Conclusion

The Canada Marriage Visa (Spousal Sponsorship) is the best way for couples to reunite permanently in Canada. By following the correct steps, providing genuine proof, and ensuring all documents are accurate, you can successfully obtain PR for your spouse.

Need help with your application? Consult an immigration expert or visit the IRCC website for official updates.

Final Checklist Before Applying:

🔹 Marriage certificate or common-law proof
🔹 Sponsor’s financial documents
🔹 Medical & police clearance certificates
🔹 Completed application forms
🔹 Paid fees

Start your journey to living together in Canada today!