How to Sponsor Your Spouse or Partner for Canadian PR

December 17,2024 Amritpal Kaur

Sponsoring your spouse or partner for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process down into manageable steps makes it much easier to understand. Whether you're a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, the steps for sponsoring your loved one are pretty straightforward once you know what to do. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Check if You and Your Partner Are Eligible

Before you start the application, you need to ensure that both you (the sponsor) and your partner (the person being sponsored) meet the eligibility requirements.

• For you (the sponsor): You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You'll also need to prove that you can financially support your partner and take care of their basic needs when they arrive in Canada.

• For your partner: Your partner must meet certain criteria, such as being admissible to Canada (not having a criminal record, for example). You’ll also need to prove that your relationship is genuine.

2. Decide if You Want to Use a Representative

You have two options: either handle the application yourself or hire a representative to help. A representative can be either paid or unpaid, but if you choose a paid representative, they must be authorized by the Canadian government.

If you go the representative route, you’ll need to officially declare them in your application. A representative can guide you through the entire process, from filling out forms to submitting documents, so this can be helpful if you’re unsure about anything.

3. Choose the Right Sponsorship Class

There are two main options for applying: Family Class (Outland sponsorship) and Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (Inland sponsorship). Which one you choose depends on where you and your partner are living and your plans for the future.

• Family Class (Outland Sponsorship): This option is for couples who are living outside Canada or those who plan to leave Canada during the process. If you apply under this class, your partner can enter and leave Canada during the application process (if they have temporary status), and you can appeal if your application is refused.

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (Inland Sponsorship): If your partner is already living inside Canada and holds valid temporary resident status (as a worker, student, or visitor), you can apply under this class. The main benefit of this class is that your partner may be eligible for an open work permit while their PR application is being processed. However, if the application is refused, there’s no appeal option.

4. Gather the Necessary Documents

Now it’s time to collect all the documents you’ll need. The specific documents vary depending on where your partner lives, but here are some common ones you’ll need:

• Proof of your Canadian citizenship or permanent residency

• Proof of your relationship (photos, communication records, joint bank accounts, etc.)

• Identity documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)

To make sure you don’t miss anything, you can use the IRCC’s "Get Ready to Apply" tool to help you figure out exactly which documents you need.

5. Complete and Submit the Online Application

Once you have all your documents in order, it’s time to fill out your application. You’ll need to visit the IRCC’s online portal and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some key steps:

• Complete the application forms for both you (the sponsor) and your partner (the person being sponsored). Some forms you’ll need are the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) and Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669).

• Make sure to digitally sign and upload all the necessary documents.

• Don’t forget to pay the application fees. You’ll need to pay the processing fee, biometrics fee, and possibly the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). It’s a good idea to pay these upfront to avoid delays later on.

After paying, save the receipt—this is your proof of payment, and you'll need to submit it with your application.

6. Submit Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Police Certificates

Once you submit your application, IRCC will send you and your partner further instructions, which may include submitting biometrics, a medical exam, and police certificates.

• Biometrics: Your partner will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken at a Service Canada location (or a Visa Application Center if applying from outside Canada).

• Medical Exam: A medical exam by an IRCC-approved physician will be required.

• Police Certificates: If your partner has lived in certain countries for an extended period, they may need to provide police certificates from those countries.

7. Wait for Processing

After all the paperwork is submitted, the IRCC will process the application. The processing time can vary depending on the specifics of your case, but during this time, make sure you’re responsive to any requests for additional documents or information.

8. Get the Decision

Once the application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If it’s approved, your partner will receive their Canadian PR. If it’s denied, and you applied under the Family Class, you may have the option to appeal the decision. Unfortunately, if you applied under the Inland Sponsorship class, there is no appeal process.

Final Tips for a Smooth Application:

• Be Honest: It’s important to provide accurate and truthful information on your application. Misrepresentation can result in serious consequences, including the refusal of your application or even being banned from applying in the future.

• Double-Check Everything: Incomplete applications are returned, which can cause major delays. Double-check your documents and forms to make sure everything is in order before submitting.

• Declare All Family Members: Don’t forget to list all family members in your application, even if they’re not coming with you to Canada. They need to be part of the process.

If you have questions or need help, our team of immigration experts is here for you.

Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.

We’re here to help simplify the process of sponsoring your spouse or partner for Canadian PR. Good Luck!