Spousal sponsorship is an important immigration path since it enables families to reunite within Canada, as citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouses and common-law partners for Canadian permanent residency. This program pairs well with Canada’s Family Class immigration program.
So, if you wish to sponsor your spouse,How long does Spousal Sponsorship take in Canada? The processing time depends on several factors, such as the application type (inland or outland), the accuracy of documents submitted, and the IRCC processing times, among other considerations.
This article is written to answer all your questions on spousal sponsorship with an emphasis on timelines and important processing steps as well as criteria that impact approval speed so that every citizen can breathe fresh air and look forward to reuniting with their loved ones in Canada.
Understanding Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
The immigration category known as family class includes a spousal sponsorship program, designed to reunite family members separated by immigration policies. Then, the next step is to have a Canadian citizen or legal resident sponsor their spouse/common-law spouse/conjugal partner for Canadian permanent residency. This policy enables couples to live and try to shape their married life together in Canada.
As a sponsored spouse, you get to stay and work in Canada forever, further enabling the country to build its nation. For that, a person needs to submit the relevant documents, meet the eligibility criteria, and clear background checks. Such policies help facilitate family reunification, while at the same time protecting Canada’s immigration system against fraudulent activities.
How Long Does Spousal Sponsorship Take?
The spousal sponsorship application processing time varies on a few factors, such as whether an application is submitted from inside Canada or outside.
1. Inland Spousal Sponsorship Processing Time
If a spouse is applying from within Canada, the spouse must already be in Canada on a visitor, study, or work permit. The average estimated time for the processing of permit tracks inland applications is approximately twelve to eighteen months. During this period, an application for an open work permit can be submitted – pending approval, which roughly takes about four to five months.
2. Outland Spousal Sponsorship Processing Time
- Spouses coming from abroad: Outland sponsorship.
- Timelines vary depending on where the applicant is residing.
- It is usually completed in around 10 to 12 months.
- Local procedures and processing times may vary depending on the embassy in the applicant’s country.
- Local procedures in an applicant’s country can result in faster or slower processing than in other countries.
- There might also be delays from other documentation that needs to be conducted or interviews that need to be conducted.
- Clients can check online portals offered by IRCC to see their application status.
- It’s only by going through the process that you will know if the application makes sense, but if you submit the right information with full supportive documentation, you will ease the process.
Step-by-Step Spousal Sponsorship Process
To help you better understand the timeline, here’s a breakdown of the spousal sponsorship process:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
If the applicant sponsor fails to meet these criteria, the sponsorship application will be refused. It includes the following:
- Must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
- Must be +18 years of age
- Must not be on social assistance aside from disability.
- Must demonstrate financial ability to support the spouse.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Processing delays often occur due to missing or incorrect documents. Ensure you have:
- Completed spousal sponsorship application forms.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, photos, communication records, etc.).
- Identity and status documents (passports, birth certificates, PR cards).
- Police clearance certificates and medical exam results.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Applications are submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) via the Permanent Residence Portal or by mail.
Step 4: Receive Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
Within 1 to 2 months, IRCC will confirm receipt and issue an AOR letter.
Step 5: Application Processing
IRCC will:
- Review the sponsor’s eligibility (1-2 months).
- Assess the relationship’s authenticity (3-6 months).
- Conduct background and security checks (2-4 months).
- Request additional documents if needed, causing possible delays.
Step 6: Decision and Final Steps
- Upon approval, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence will be issued to the sponsored spouse. (COPR)
- If the spouse is applying for permanent residence from outside the country, he or she will be able to travel to Canada or complete the steps while already in Canada.
Elements That Can Influence The Duration Of Spousal Sponsorship Processing
Documents that are filled incorrectly or simply missing altogether can lead to refusals or delays thereby increasing the time taken for spousal sponsorship.
- Application office for the country of origin- Different offices process and respond to applications at varying speeds.
- Background Checks– Lengthy security and medical checks can extend timelines.
- Volume of Applications– High demand periods may lead to slower processing.
- Interview Requirement– If IRCC requires an interview to verify the relationship, it can add months to the process.
Tips to Speed Up Spousal Sponsorship Processing
While processing times are mostly determined by IRCC, you can take steps to prevent unnecessary delays:
- Double-check all forms and documents before submission.
- Submit police certificates and medical exams early.
- Respond to IRCC requests promptly to avoid additional waiting time.
- Provide strong proof of relationship to prevent doubts.
- Track your application online through the IRCC website for updates.
What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed?
If your application exceeds the estimated processing time, you can:
- Contact IRCC through the web form.
- Submit a Case-Specific Inquiry.
- Check your application status online.
- Request assistance from a Member of Parliament (MP).
Conclusion
The spousal sponsorship application processing time in Canada can vary from 10 to 18 months considering various factors. Applicants are required to duly fill and submit their applications with required documents and also trace the application status to avoid long waiting periods. Moreover, applicants must strictly adhere to the IRCC guidelines for a hassle-free process.
Timing for processing is also dependent on background checks and country of residency as well as application particulars. Timely communication with IRCC and providing reiterated substantial evidence of relationship results in quicker approvals. By being proactive, sponsors can avoid unnecessary setbacks and be united with their spouses or partners in Canada sooner.
