Spousal & Family Sponsorship

Sponsor your spouse, partner, or dependent children for permanent residence.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner, and dependent children for permanent residence. Applications are processed either inland (applicant in Canada) or outland (through a visa office), each with trade-offs in work-permit eligibility and travel.

Who it’s for

  • Couples (married, common-law, or conjugal) seeking PR together
  • Parents sponsoring dependent children
  • Inland couples who also want an open work permit

Key facts

  • No minimum income requirement for spouse/child (except Quebec)
  • Inland processing is typically about 12–18 months
  • Outland processing is typically about 12–24 months by office
  • Inland applicants may apply for an open work permit while waiting

How it works

  1. Confirm the relationship qualifies: Gather proof of a genuine marriage, common-law, or conjugal relationship.
  2. Choose inland or outland: Pick the stream that fits your status, travel needs, and work-permit goals.
  3. Submit sponsor + applicant package: File both the sponsorship and PR applications together with full supporting evidence.
  4. Respond to IRCC and complete PR: Provide any requested documents or interview, then land as a permanent resident.

Eligibility highlights

  • Sponsor is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, 18+
  • A genuine, qualifying relationship
  • Sponsor meets undertaking obligations and admissibility
  • Applicant passes medical, security, and background checks

Official source

Information current as of June 2026; rules change frequently — always confirm on canada.ca.