What is a Spouse Visa in Canada?
A spouse visa in Canada, also known as spousal sponsorship to Canada, is a program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their husband, wife, or partner for permanent residency.
This pathway is one of the most common family immigration options in Canada. It ensures that the spouse of a permanent resident in Canada or citizen can live, work, and build a future with their loved one without being separated by borders.
Other Permanent Residency Services
Are you eligible for Spousal Sponsorship in Canada?
To apply for spousal sponsorship to Canada, both the sponsor and the applicant must meet specific requirements:
Sponsor Eligibility: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and able to financially support their spouse.
Applicant Eligibility: The spouse or partner must be at least 18 years old, legally married, in a common-law partnership (living together for 12 months), or in a conjugal relationship due to exceptional circumstances.
Relationship Proof: The relationship must be genuine and not solely for immigration purposes. Supporting documents such as photos, financial records, and proof of cohabitation are required.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship to Canada Applications
There are two main ways to apply for a spouse visa in Canada:
Inland Spousal Sponsorship
For spouses already living in Canada with valid temporary status. Applicants can stay in Canada and apply for an open work permit while waiting for permanent residency.
Outland Spousal Sponsorship
For spouses living outside of Canada. Applications are processed through a visa office in the applicant’s home country. Often a faster option depending on the country of residence.
Top 3 reasons hiring me as your immigration consultant to handle your spouse visa will make your life easier:
Clarity at Every Step
I break down the complicated requirements into simple steps, so you always know what’s next.
Stronger Applications
I ensure your spousal sponsorship to Canada application is complete, accurate, and well-documented to reduce the risk of refusal.
Avoid Unnecessary Delays
By avoiding mistakes and delays, I help keep your timeline on track.
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.