Permanent Residency
Spousal
Sponsorship
Have more questions on sponsoring your spouse ? We’re here to help.
How long does spousal sponsorship take in Canada?
Currently, most spousal sponsorship applications take around 12 to 36 months to process, but timelines can vary depending on where the spouse lives and the complexity of the case.
Who can sponsor someone to Canada?
You can sponsor your partner if you are a Canadian citizen or the spouse of a permanent resident in Canada, as long as you live in Canada at the time of application. Sponsors must be at least 18 and financially able to support their partner.
How much is spousal sponsorship in Canada?
Government fees for a spouse visa in Canada are usually:
- $1,205 CAD (sponsorship fee, processing fee, and right of permanent residence fee), or
- $630 CAD (if the right of permanent residence fee is not included upfront).
- Adding a dependent child costs $175 CAD per child.
Can my spouse work while waiting for approval?
If your spouse is applying from inside Canada (inland sponsorship), they may be eligible for a spousal open work permit while the application is in process. This allows them to work legally while waiting for permanent residency.
What is the difference between inland and outland sponsorship?
Inland sponsorship: Your spouse is already in Canada on valid temporary status and applies from within the country. They can remain in Canada during processing and may apply for a work permit.
Outland sponsorship: Your spouse lives outside Canada and applies through a visa office abroad. This option may be faster depending on the country of residence.
Express entry
Canada
Have more questions on creating and submitting your Express Entry profile? We’re here to help.
How long is the wait for Express Entry Canada?
It depends on your CRS score and the pool. High-ranking profiles can get an invitation in weeks, others may wait several months.
Can I leave Canada while waiting for Express Entry?
Yes, as long as your current visa or permit allows it. Make sure your profile and contact info stay up-to-date.
Do I need a job offer?
Not for all programs. But having a valid Canadian job offer can increase your CRS score and improve your chances.
What if my profile changes?
Any change (i.e. new job, language test, marriage) must be updated. Incorrect or missing information can lead to refusal, inadmissibility, or a 5-year ban.
Can I improve my CRS score over time?
Yes! Education, work experience, language results, and job offers can all increase your score. You may also be eligible to apply a PNP which if approved can significantly increase your score.
How often are Express Entry draws?
IRCC usually holds draws every 2 weeks, with special priority draws for certain occupations or skills.
Provincial
Nomination Program (PNP)
Have more questions on applying for a provincial nomination in Canada? We’re here to help.
Who is eligible for PNP Ontario Canada?
Skilled workers, international students, and French-speaking professionals. Eligibility often requires a job offer in Ontario, Ontario education credentials, or in-demand work experience.
Who is eligible for PNP Alberta Canada?
killed workers, semi-skilled workers, and entrepreneurs with a job offer or business plan in Alberta. Candidates must have skills, experience, or a business plan that contributes to Alberta’s economy.
Can I apply for both Ontario and Alberta PNP at the same time?
Yes, but ensure your applications are accurate and complete to avoid complications with IRCC.
Do I need a job offer to apply for PNP?
It depends on the stream. Many Ontario and Alberta streams require a valid job offer, but some streams, like entrepreneur streams in Alberta or graduate streams in Ontario, allow candidates without a job offer.
Humanitarian &
Compassionate (H&C)
Have more questions on staying in Canada through H&C applications? We’re here to help.
Who can apply for Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds in Canada?
Foreign nationals in Canada who don’t qualify under standard immigration programs but have exceptional circumstances or hardship may apply. This includes strong family ties, established life in Canada, medical issues, or other compelling reasons.
How long does an H&C application take?
Processing times vary depending on your case and documents, typically taking several months to over a year.
How much does applying for H&C cost?
An H&C application typically costs anywhere between $635–$1,210 CAD for you and your spouse/partner, plus $175 CAD for each dependent child.
Can H&C help with spousal sponsorship cases?
Yes! If you cannot apply through the usual spousal sponsorship process, an H&C application can be a pathway to keep your family together in Canada.
Is approval guaranteed?
No. H&C applications are discretionary and case-by-case, but presenting a strong, well-documented case greatly improves your chances.
Visitor and Tourist Visas
Visitor Visa
& Super Visa
Have more questions on visiting Canada or bringing family on a Super Visa? We’re here to help.
Can a Super Visa holder work in Canada?
No. The Super Visa is only for visiting family. It does not allow you to work. You can stay long-term with your family while your medical insurance remains valid.
How long can Super Visa holders stay in Canada?
Super Visa holders can stay for up to five years at a time. The visa itself can be valid for up to ten years, depending on your passport and other factors.
What is the difference between a TRV and a Super Visa?
A Temporary Resident Visa is for short visits, usually up to six months. A Super Visa is for parents and grandparents and allows longer stays of up to five years per visit with multiple entries over ten years.
How long can I stay in Canada with a Temporary Resident Visa?
Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months. The exact duration is determined by the border services officer at the port of entry, who may allow a shorter or longer stay. If no stamp is placed in your passport, you can stay for 6 months from the day you entered Canada or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Visitor
Visa Extension
Have more questions on extending your visitor status in Canada? We’re here to help.
How long does a visitor visa extension take in Canada?
Processing times for visitor visa extensions can vary. For the most current information, please refer to the IRCC processing times page.
How much is a visa extension in Canada?
The fee for extending your stay as a visitor is $100 CAD per person. If you’re restoring your status as a visitor, the fee is $239.75 CAD.
Can I extend my visitor visa in Canada online?
Yes, you can apply online for a visitor record to extend your stay in Canada. Applying online is faster and allows you to track your application status.
When should I apply to extend my visitor visa?
You should apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. The expiry date for your status is on the stamp in your passport (this is not the date included on your visitor visa).
What happens if I apply after my visitor visa expires?
If you apply to extend your stay before your current status expires, you can legally stay in Canada until a decision is made on your application. In this situation, you have maintained your status.
Temporary
Resident Permit (TRP)
Have more questions on applying for a temporary resident permit? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to get a TRP in Canada?
Processing times vary depending on your situation. It is best to apply well in advance of your travel plans.
How much does a TRP cost?
The government fee is CAN $239.75. This fee is not refunded if your application is refused.
Can I work or study in Canada with a TRP?
A TRP allows you to enter or stay temporarily but does not automatically permit work or study. You need a separate permit for that.
Can a TRP lead to permanent residency?
A TRP does not give permanent residency, but in certain cases it may be a step toward applying for permanent residence.
What happens if my TRP is refused?
You can appeal or reapply with more supporting evidence. Professional guidance increases the chance of success.
Can I get a TRP if I have a criminal record?
Yes, but you must show that your need to enter Canada outweighs the risk to Canadian society. Having a criminal record makes the process more complex and requires careful preparation.
Restoration
of Status
Have more questions on restoring your legal status in Canada? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to restore status in Canada?
Processing times vary but may take a few weeks to several months depending on your case and IRCC workloads.
Can I continue working or studying while waiting for restoration of status?
No. You must stop working or studying immediately until your status is officially restored.
What happens if my restoration of status is refused?
If refused, you will need to leave Canada immediately and may have to reapply for entry from outside the country.
What documents do I need to apply for restoration of status?
You’ll need:
- A valid passport or travel document
- Proof of your expired status (e.g., expired permit)
- Any supporting documents relevant to your application
Can my family members apply for restoration of status?
Yes, each family member must apply separately to restore their status. They must each pay the restoration fee for their application.
How do I apply for restoration of status?
In most cases, you must apply online. You’ll need to:
- Gather your documents
- Complete the appropriate application form (e.g., IMM 5710 for workers)
- Pay the required fees
- Submit your application through the IRCC portal
Work Visa & Employment Immigration
Global Talent
Stream LMIA
Have more questions on LMIA applications for skilled workers? We’re here to help.
How long does the Global Talent Stream LMIA process take?
GTS LMIAs are the fastest LMIAs to go through processing. Most Global Talent Stream LMIA applications are processed in about two weeks. However, timelines depend on the completeness of the application and how quickly supporting documents are provided.
What are the requirements for employers under the Global Talent Stream LMIA?
Employers must:
- Meet Category A or B eligibility,
- Pay the $1,000 processing fee per position,
- Work with ESDC to complete a Labour Market Benefits Plan,
- Commit to mandatory benefits such as job creation or skills training, plus at least two complementary benefits,
- Ensure compliance with wages, working conditions, and employment standards.
Can workers apply for a work permit immediately after LMIA approval?
Yes. Once an employer receives a positive LMIA under the Global Talent Stream, the worker can apply for a work permit. Processing for Global Talent Stream work permits is also usually around two weeks, provided the application is complete.
Can employers use representatives for LMIA applications?
Yes. Employers may choose to work with a paid or unpaid third-party representative. Paid representatives must be authorized, such as members of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) or Canadian law societies. Employers are responsible for ensuring representatives do not charge fees to workers.
What happens if an employer doesn’t comply with LMIA requirements?
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program has strict compliance measures. Employers who fail to meet their obligations may face penalties, including bans from the program. Progress reviews of the Labour Market Benefits Plan are also conducted to ensure commitments are being met.
LMIA-Based
Work Permit
Have more questions on applying for a work permit with LMIA support? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to get an LMIA-based work permit in Canada
Timelines vary. First, your employer must apply for and receive the LMIA decision. Only after that can you submit your work permit application. IRCC processing times depend on the visa office where you apply and whether biometrics or additional checks are needed. Submitting complete, thorough, and organized applications helps visa officers in processing.
Can I start working right after my LMIA is approved
No. An LMIA alone does not give you the right to work in Canada. You must apply for and receive your work permit from IRCC before starting employment
What if my LMIA expires before my work permit is approved
LMIA approvals are valid for a set period, usually six months. The foreign national must apply for their work permit before the LMIA expires. If the LMIA expires, it can no longer be included in a work permit application. It is okay if the LMIA expires while the work permit application is processing, as long as the work permit application was submitted when the LMIA was still valid. Acting quickly after receiving the LMIA helps avoid complications
Do I need to show proof of funds for an LMIA work permit
In most cases, proof of funds is not required when applying for a work permit with a valid job offer, although it is always a good idea to show IRCC proof that you can support yourself and your family in Canada, especially if dependents are included
Can my family come with me on an LMIA-based work permit
Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit and your children can apply for study permits, this all depends on the TEER level of your occupation. Each family member must submit their own application. If your spouse is not eligible for an open work permit, they may accompany you in Canada on a Temporary Residence Visa or Visitor Record. Your children will most likely be eligible to apply for study permits.
Work Permit
Extension
Have more questions on extending your Canadian work permit? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to extend a work permit in Canada?
Processing times vary depending on your work permit type and where you are applying from. Online applications typically take a few weeks to a few months.
Can I keep working while my extension is being processed?
If you apply before your current work permit expires, you may continue working under implied status until a decision is made.
What documents do I need for a work permit extension?
You will generally need your current work permit, passport, job offer or employment confirmation, proof of eligibility, and application fees. Some work permits may require additional documents.
Can I extend my work permit after it expires?
You can apply within 90 days after your permit expires, but it is best to apply before it expires to maintain legal status.
How much does it cost to extend a work permit in Canada?
The standard fee is $155 CAD for most work permits. Some work permit types, like open work permits for spouses, may have different fees.
Post Graduate
Work Permit (PGWP)
Have more questions on applying for a PGWP after graduation? We’re here to help.
How long can I work on a PGWP in Canada ?
The work permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years. For example, a 2-year program may give you a 2-year PGWP.
Can I apply for a PGWP after graduation ?
Yes, but you must apply within 180 days of receiving official confirmation that you completed your program.
Do I need a job offer to apply for a PGWP ?
No. A PGWP is an open work permit, which means you can work for any employer in Canada.
Can I extend my PGWP ?
The PGWP cannot be extended. If you want to continue working in Canada after it expires, you will need to apply for another work permit under a different program or consider permanent residence pathways such as the Canadian Experience Class.
Can I include my family on my PGWP application ?
Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit, and dependent children can apply for study permits. Each family member must submit their own application and meet the requirements set by IRCC.
Spousal Open
Work Permit (SOWP)
Have more questions on spouses working in Canada while staying together? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to get a SOWP
Processing times vary depending on whether you apply from inside or outside Canada. IRCC publishes estimated times on their website and updates them regularly.
Can I work for any employer on a SOWP
Yes. A SOWP is an open work permit, which means you can work full-time for any employer in Canada.
Can common-law partners apply for a SOWP
Yes. Common-law partners who have lived together for at least one year can apply. Proof of cohabitation and relationship is required.
Do I need a job offer to apply for a SOWP
No. A SOWP does not require a job offer, giving you flexibility to find work after approval.
Can I include my children on my SOWP application
Dependent children can apply for study permits to attend school in Canada. Each child must submit their own application following IRCC guidelines. Dependent children of workers and students are not eligible to apply for work permits.
Study Permit & Student Immigration
Study
Permit
Have more questions on applying for a Canadian study permit? We’re here to help.
How long does a Canadian study permit application take?
Processing times vary depending on where you apply, but on average it takes 8–12 weeks. Currently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) lists the wait time at around 11 weeks. I’ll help you prepare a complete application to avoid unnecessary delays.
How much money is required for a study permit in Canada?
You must show proof you can pay for tuition, living expenses (for yourself and family, if applicable), and return transportation. Starting September 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will increase the financial requirements. I’ll guide you on exactly how much you need to show, based on your family size and province.
Can I work while studying in Canada on a study permit?
In most cases, yes! If your study permit allows it, you can work part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. I’ll help make sure your permit includes the right conditions so you can support yourself while studying.
Do I need a visa as well as a study permit?
Yes. Your study permit allows you to study, while your visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) allows you to enter Canada. When your study permit is approved, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue the entry document you need.
Study
Permit Extensions
Have more questions on applying for a Canadian study permit? We’re here to help.
How long does it take to process a study permit extension in Canada?
Processing times change depending on IRCC’s workload. Right now, the study permit extension processing time is about 170 days. To avoid last minute issues, it is best to apply at least 30 days before your study permit expires.
Can I stay in Canada while my study permit extension is in process?
Yes. If you applied before your permit expired, you will have what is called maintained status. This means you can stay in Canada and continue studying, and if your permit allows it, you can also keep working until IRCC makes a decision. Keep in mind that while waiting, you will not be able to renew documents like your driver’s licence, health card, or SIN.
How much does it cost to extend a study permit in Canada?
The fee for a study permit extension is $150. If your permit has already expired, you will need to apply for restoration of status, which costs $389.75 in total. That includes $239.75 for the restoration fee plus $150 for the new study permit.
What are the requirements to extend a study permit in Canada?
The main requirements to extend study permit include having a valid passport, proof of enrollment or a new Letter of Acceptance (LOA), financial proof showing you can support yourself, and properly completed IRCC application forms.
Can I work while waiting for my study permit extension?
Yes. If you applied before your current study permit expired and you had the right to work under your existing permit, you can continue working while your extension is being processed. If you apply after your permit expires, you must stop working until your status is restored.
Can I travel outside Canada while my study permit extension is being processed?
It is risky to travel while your application is in process. To return to Canada, you will need a valid study permit or approval letter, along with a valid visa or eTA. If your extension has not yet been approved, there is a chance you may not be allowed to re-enter to continue your studies.
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