Canadian citizens and permanent residents often ask how they can sponsor a foreign spouse after getting married. Canada’s family sponsorship program allows eligible sponsors to help their husband or wife obtain permanent residence, but the process requires careful planning, complete documentation, and patience.
This article explains how spousal sponsorship works, the available options, and what couples should expect.
Who Can Sponsor a Spouse to Canada?
You may be eligible to sponsor your spouse if you are:
- A Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- At least 18 years old
- Living in Canada (or planning to return if you are a Canadian citizen living abroad)
- Not barred from sponsoring due to prior sponsorship undertakings or serious criminal issues
Sponsors must also show they are not receiving social assistance (other than for disability).
Who Can Be Sponsored?
A sponsored spouse may be:
- Legally married to the sponsor
- Living inside or outside Canada
- Of any nationality
Canada also recognizes certain common-law and conjugal relationships, but legal marriage is generally the most straightforward category.
Inland vs. Outland Spousal Sponsorship
Spousal sponsorship applications fall into two main categories:
Inland Sponsorship
- The sponsored spouse is already living in Canada
- The couple lives together in Canada
- The sponsored spouse may apply for an open work permit during processing
- Travel outside Canada during processing can be risky
- Appeal options are limited if the application is refused
Outland Sponsorship
- The sponsored spouse lives outside Canada
- Processing occurs through a visa office abroad
- The sponsored spouse may still visit Canada if otherwise eligible
- Travel is generally more flexible
- A right of appeal exists if the application is refused
Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship: Key Differences
| Category | Inland Sponsorship | Outland Sponsorship |
| Where the Spouse Lives | Inside Canada | Outside Canada |
| Living Together Required | Yes | No |
| Open Work Permit Option | Yes | No |
| Ability to Travel | Travel may be restricted | Travel generally easier |
| Right to Appeal a Refusal | Limited | Yes |
| Processing Location | Inside Canada | Visa office abroad |
| Best For | Couples already settled in Canada | Couples living apart or needing travel flexibility |
Proving a Genuine Marriage
Canadian immigration officers carefully assess whether a marriage is genuine and not entered into primarily for immigration purposes. Couples should be prepared to provide evidence such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Photos from the wedding and relationship history
- Proof of communication over time
- Joint financial documents or shared responsibilities
- Written statements explaining how the relationship developed
Well-organized documentation can reduce delays and the likelihood of an interview.
Processing Times and Expectations
Processing times vary depending on:
- Inland or outland processing
- The visa office handling the application
- The completeness and clarity of the submission
While many cases are processed within approximately one year, timelines may change.
Common Issues That Can Delay a Case
Delays often result from:
- Missing or inconsistent documentation
- Weak relationship evidence
- Incomplete medical or background checks
- Prior marriages or previous sponsorships
Addressing these issues upfront can make a significant difference.
Frequently Asked Questions: Marriage-Based Immigration to Canada
Can a Canadian citizen sponsor a spouse who lives outside Canada?
Yes. Canadian citizens may sponsor a spouse abroad and may live outside Canada during processing if they demonstrate intent to return.
Can permanent residents sponsor a spouse while living abroad?
No. Permanent residents must be physically residing in Canada to sponsor a spouse.
Is there a minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship?
There is no formal minimum income requirement, but sponsors must show they can meet basic financial obligations and are not receiving social assistance (other than disability).
How long does spousal sponsorship take?
Processing times vary, but many applications are completed within about 12 months.
Will we be required to attend an interview?
Not all cases require an interview. Interviews are more likely if officers need clarification about the relationship or documentation.
Can my spouse work in Canada while waiting for approval?
In inland cases, the sponsored spouse may be eligible for an open work permit during processing. Outland cases do not include automatic work authorization.
What if one or both spouses were married before?
Previous marriages are permitted, but divorces must be final. Officers may review timelines more carefully when there are prior marriages.
Does marriage guarantee permanent residence?
No. Immigration officers must be satisfied that the marriage is genuine and not entered into primarily for immigration purposes.
How NPZ Law Group Can Help
NPZ Law Group assists couples with:
- Selecting the appropriate sponsorship strategy
- Preparing complete and well-documented applications
- Addressing prior marriages or complex relationship histories
- Responding to requests from immigration authorities
Each case is reviewed individually to help avoid unnecessary delays.
Final Takeaway
Marriage-based immigration to Canada allows families to reunite, but success depends on careful preparation and clear documentation. Understanding sponsorship options and requirements before filing can help couples move forward with confidence.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.