Quick answer
Canadian citizens and permanent residents may sponsor an eligible spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, and dependent children for permanent residence. The application must prove sponsor eligibility, genuine relationship, admissibility, and complete supporting documents.
Who can sponsor?
Sponsors generally need to be at least 18, be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian, and meet sponsorship eligibility rules. Permanent residents must usually live in Canada. Canadian citizens living abroad may need to show they will return to Canada when the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident.
Who can be sponsored?
You may sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, and dependent children if they meet relationship, age, dependency, and admissibility rules. Common-law partners usually need evidence of at least 12 months of continuous cohabitation.
Inland vs outland strategy
Inland applications are commonly used when the couple lives together in Canada. Outland applications are commonly used when the sponsored person lives outside Canada or needs flexibility to travel. The right strategy depends on status, travel needs, work permit options, and proof of relationship.
Documents that matter
A strong file may include marriage or common-law evidence, shared residence proof, photos, communication records, financial support, travel history, family knowledge, affidavits, identity documents, police certificates, medicals when requested, and custody documents for children.
Undertaking and responsibility
Sponsors sign an undertaking to provide financial support. IRCC lists the undertaking length for a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner as 3 years outside Quebec. Quebec has its own undertaking process.
Official reference
For current instructions, see IRCC's spouse, partner or child sponsorship application page and undertaking guidance.
