Spousal Sponsorship

Spousal sponsorship is the most-used family class immigration pathway — and the most scrutinized. Officers prioritize one question above all others: is this a genuine conjugal relationship, or was it entered into primarily for immigration purposes?

The answer to that question determines the outcome. Assembling the right evidence — not just the required forms — is what separates approved applications from refused ones.

Spousal sponsorship is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are at least 18 years old and can demonstrate they are not prohibited from sponsoring. The common assumption — that having a job and a place to live is enough — misses the factors that actually disqualify sponsors.

Sponsor Requirements

• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Indian Act
• At least 18 years old
• Residing in Canada — Canadian citizens sponsoring from abroad must demonstrate intent and ability to return when the sponsored spouse becomes a PR
• Not subject to a removal order
• Not detained in a penitentiary, jail, reformatory, or prison
• Not convicted of specific offences involving violence, family abuse, or sexual offences (check s.133 IRPA for the full list)
• Not in default on a previous sponsorship undertaking
• Not receiving social assistance (except disability-related social assistance)
• Not declared bankrupt and not yet discharged

No Income Requirement for Spouses

Unlike the Parents and Grandparents Program, spousal and partner sponsorships do not have a minimum income requirement. The sponsor must demonstrate they are not on social assistance (other than for disability), but there is no Minimum Necessary Income threshold. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects — sponsors who turn down the application because they think they don't earn enough are often incorrect.

Previous Sponsorship Default

Sponsors who previously sponsored a spouse or partner and that person received social assistance within three years of becoming a PR may be in default. This disqualifies them from sponsoring again until the debt is repaid. Many sponsors don't realize this obligation existed — or that the government pursued it.

Quick Facts

Sponsorship fee:$85
Processing fee:$570
RPRF:$515
Income requirement:None
Processing time:12–24 months
Undertaking period:3 years

Related Pathways

A consultation reviews the sponsor's eligibility, the evidence package, and which processing stream (inland vs outland) is right for your situation.

Schedule your consultation

A consultation is required for case-specific advice.

Assess Your Spousal Sponsorship

Relationship genuineness is assessed on evidence, not feeling. A consultation with RCIC #R515343 reviews your documentation strategy before you submit.

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Amer Rehman, RCIC #R515343 | Member, CICC