Family reunification is one of the pillars of Canada’s immigration system. The Canadian government is committed to keep families together whenever possible. The Family Class allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their dependent children, parents and grandparents, and spouse or common-law/conjugal partner.

Spousal Sponsorship

Canadian citizen or permanent resident may sponsor a spouse/ common-law partner/ conjugal partner for Canadian permanent residence. This process involves Sponsorship application from Canadian sponsor and Permanent residence application from spouse/common-law partner/conjugal partner. Both need to be approved byImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in order for the sponsored person to receive a visa.These applications are of two types:

  • Outland/Overseas Sponsorship

This option is generally selected when the sponsored spouse/common-law partner lives outside of Canada. However, if the sponsored person is living in Canada, they can also apply through this.

  • Inland Sponsorship

This option is selected only if the sponsored spouse/common-law partner is residing inside Canada. They must be cohabiting with sponsor and have valid temporary status in Canada (exception under spousal public policy may apply). The sponsored person can be eligible for an open work permit while their application is being processed.

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada. Parents and grandparents approved under this program receive Canadian permanent residence and may eventually be able to apply for Canadian citizenship. At present the interested sponsors are first required to submit their Interest to Sponsor form online and then the candidates are selected through draw. Selected sponsors receive invitation to apply and have 60 days to submit a complete application and the required documents. IRCC aims to accept 23500 complete applications under parents and grandparents category per year as per 2021-2023 Immigration level plan.

Contact us with any question(s) concerning Family Sponsorship requirements and applications.