Applying for your spouse or common-law sponsorship for Canada can be both life-changing and challenging. Whether your partner lives in Canada or abroad, getting the application right is essential. A complete and well-prepared spousal sponsorship application can help avoid delays and increase your chances of approval.

In this blog, we’ll share useful tips for preparing a strong spousal and common-law sponsorship application for Canada.

1. Spousal Sponsorship Canada: Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before starting the application process, make sure both the sponsor and the sponsored person meet the basic requirements:

For the Sponsor:

  • 🔸 Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • 🔸 Must be 18 years or older.
  • 🔸 Must not be receiving social assistance (except for disability).
  • 🔸 Must be able to support your partner financially.

For the Sponsored Partner:

  • 🔸 Must be at least 18 years old.
  • 🔸 Must pass background, security, and medical checks.

There are two types of applications: Inland spousal sponsorship Canada (if your partner is in Canada) and Outland spousal sponsorship Canada (if they are living outside Canada). Choose the correct stream based on your situation.

2. How to Prove Your Relationship Is Genuine for IRCC

This is the most important part of your application. You need to prove whether your relationship with your partner is genuine or not. Immigration officers must be convinced your relationship is real, not just for immigration purposes.

There are ways to show proof:

  • 👉 Marriage certificate (for married couples).
  • 👉 Shared finances or lease agreements.
  • 👉 Photos taken together at different times and places.
  • 👉 Letters, emails, texts, or call logs.
  • 👉 Travel tickets and hotel bookings from joint trips.
  • 👉 Affidavits from friends and family who can confirm your relationship.

Avoid sending large amounts of unnecessary documents, but make sure you include enough strong and clear proof to support your case.

3.  Fill Out All Forms Accurately

The Spousal Sponsorship Application Canada includes multiple forms, such as:

  • 🔸 IMM 1344 (Sponsorship Application)
  • 🔸 IMM 5532 (Relationship Questionnaire)
  • 🔸 IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada)
  • 🔸 IMM 5669 (Background/Declaration)

Make sure all questions are answered clearly. Double-check names, dates, and addresses. Incomplete or inconsistent information is one of the top reasons for application delays or refusals.

4. Include Translations for Non-English/French Documents

If any of your documents (like marriage certificates or birth certificates) are not in English or French, include:

  • ✨ A certified translation.
  • ✨ A copy of the original document.
  • ✨ An affidavit from the translator.

Failure to provide proper translations can result in application refusal or return.

5. Get Police Clearance and Medical Exams Early

Your spouse or partner will need:

  • ✔️ A police certificate from every country where they lived for more than 6 months since turning 18.
  • ✔️ A medical exam by an approved panel physician.

All of these documents are valid only for a limited time, so it’s wise to gather them when you’re ready to submit your application.

6. Pay the Spousal Sponsorship Application Fees Online

You’ll need to pay the application fee and, in most cases, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) . Paying both at the start can reduce processing time.

Fees are paid online through the IRCC website. Be sure to include a copy of the payment receipt in your application package.

7. Keep Copies of Everything You Submit

Before sending your application, make digital or physical copies of:

  • ✔️ All completed forms.
  • ✔️ Supporting documents.
  • ✔️ Payment receipts.
  • ✔️ Courier tracking details.

This will help if your application is lost or if you are asked for additional documents later.

8. Follow the Latest IRCC Spousal Sponsorship Guidelines

Immigration policies change regularly. Before submitting, review the official IRCC spousal sponsorship checklist and guides. Always use the latest forms and instructions to avoid having your application returned.

Final Thoughts

Spousal and common-law sponsorship in Canada can be a long and emotional process, but preparing your application with care can improve your chances of success. Focus on providing complete, honest, and well-organized information. If you feel stressed, consider working with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

Need help with your spousal sponsorship application for Canada? Contact CHD Immigration Services in Surreyfor expert guidance and support throughout the process. Our team is here to help you reunite with your loved one in Canada.

FAQs:

  • Q.1 How long does spousal sponsorship take in Canada?

    • Ans: Processing times can vary, but on average, it takes 10 to 12 monthsfor most applications. Inland applications might take a little longer compared to Outland applications.

  • Q.2 Can I sponsor my spouse if I don’t have a job?

    • Ans: You don’t need a job to sponsor your spouse, but you must prove that you’re not on social assistance (unless for a disability) and can financially support your partner.

  • Q.3 What’s the difference between Inland and Outland sponsorship?
    Ans:
  • 🔹Inland means your spouse/common-law partner is already in Canada with you.
  • 🔹Outland is for partners who live outside Canada.
    Both lead to permanent residency, but the process and timelines may vary.
  • Q.4 Do I need to be married to sponsor my partner?

    • Ans: Not necessarily! You can also sponsor a common-law partner (you’ve lived together for at least 12 months) or a conjugal partner under special circumstances.

  • Q.5 What happens if we don’t provide enough proof of our relationship?

    • Ans: Lack of solid proof is one of the top reasons for rejection. You must show your relationship is genuine , using photos, messages, shared finances, or travel history.

  • Q.6 Do we need to do a medical exam and police check?

    • Ans: Yes. Your partner will need to complete a medical exam and submit police certificates from every country they’ve lived in for more than 6 months after turning 18.

  • Q.7 Can I work while waiting for my Inland sponsorship to be approved?

    • Ans: If you’re applying Inland, you can apply for an open work permit along with your sponsorship application. This allows you to work legally while you wait.

  • Q.8 What if we make a mistake on the application forms?

    • Ans: Mistakes or missing info can cause delays or rejections. Always double-check everything before submission. Consider hiring a licensed consultant if you’re unsure.