What it is
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent children for permanent residence. Two routes: sponsoring from outside Canada (Family Class / “outland”) and sponsoring a spouse/partner already living with you in Canada (Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class / “inland”). Marriage alone does not grant status — a formal application is required.
Who is eligible
Sponsor: at least 18; Canadian citizen, PR, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act; living in Canada (citizens abroad may sponsor if planning to live in Canada when the person becomes a PR); not on social assistance (except disability); able to provide basic needs; sign a 3-year undertaking; not barred (previous undertaking default, certain convictions, undischarged bankruptcy, removal order, sponsored a previous spouse within 5 years). Generally no minimum income requirement.
Sponsored person: spouse, common-law partner (12+ months cohabitation), conjugal partner, or dependent child; 18+ for spouses/partners; genuine relationship; admissible (medical, criminality, security).
The process
- Confirm eligibility for both parties.
- Get the application package (guide IMM 5289 + checklist).
- Sponsor completes sponsorship application; sponsored person completes PR application — submitted together.
- Pay government fees.
- Biometrics, medical exam, police certificates.
- Respond to IRCC requests (possible interview).
- Decision; if approved, the person becomes a PR. In-Canada applicants with valid status may get an open work permit while waiting.
Document checklist
Sponsor’s status proof and residence; marriage certificate or 12-month cohabitation proof; relationship evidence (photos, communication, joint finances, statements); children’s birth certificates/custody proof; police certificates (6+ months since age 18); panel-physician medical exam; signed undertaking forms; IMM 5476 if applicable.
Important warnings
- The 3-year undertaking is binding even if the relationship breaks down.
- If you were yourself sponsored as a spouse/partner, you generally cannot sponsor a new spouse/partner until 5 years after you became a PR.
Based on official guidance from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Next step: Sponsorship files succeed or fail on evidence and completeness. Contact Journey to West Immigration to prepare your application properly.