At a glance
Canadian citizens and permanent residents aged 18 or older can sponsor a spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner. The sponsor promises financial support for three years, and the couple must show the relationship is genuine.
Who can sponsor
You can sponsor if you are at least 18 and a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act. Permanent residents must live in Canada while sponsoring; citizens living abroad must show they will live in Canada once the partner becomes a permanent resident.
Spouse, common-law or conjugal partner
A spouse is legally married to you. A common-law partner has lived with you in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. A conjugal partner category exists for couples who could not live together or marry because of significant barriers.
Inland or outland
Inland sponsorship is for couples living together in Canada, and the partner may be eligible for an open work permit while waiting. Outland applications can be made whether or not the partner is in Canada and keep the sponsor's right to appeal a refusal.
The sponsorship undertaking
The sponsor signs an undertaking to support the partner financially for three years from the date they become a permanent resident. This obligation continues even if the relationship ends.
Proving the relationship is genuine
Strong applications show a real, ongoing relationship through consistent documents.
- Marriage certificate or proof of living together.
- Photos over time and with family.
- Communication history and travel records.
- Shared finances, leases or bills.
Official sources
Rules and instructions can change. This article provides general information, not legal advice or an individual eligibility decision. We are a licensed immigration firm based in Ontario, Canada, and are not affiliated with the Government of Canada.
