The Spousal Sponsorship Category

The Spousal Sponsorship program is a subsection of the Family Class immigration category. Under this program, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident may sponsor a spouse or common-law partner for Canadian permanent residence.

Both the Canadian citizen or permanent resident called the 'sponsor' and the foreign national must be approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in order for the sponsored person to receive a visa.

In order to receive a visa through this immigration program, the sponsor and sponsored person must prove that their relationship qualifies under one of three categories:

• - Spouse
• - Common-law Partner
• - Conjugal Partner

Please note, Canada recognizes same-sex marriage, and same-sex partners may be eligible to apply under any of the above three categories, provided they meet all eligibility requirements.

Outside Canada Sponsorship

An Outside Canada application is generally pursued when the sponsored partner is living outside of Canada. However, Outland applicants can still be in Canada and apply through the Outside Canada program, and may be permitted to travel in and out of Canada throughout the application process. Outside Canada applications are processed through the visa office that serves the applicant’s country of origin, or where they have resided legally for at least one year.

Inside Canada Sponsorship

The other potential option for Spousal/Common-Law Sponsorship is the Inside Canada route. Inside Canada sponsorship is when the couple is together in Canada and the foreign spouse/common-law partner has temporary status in Canada, either as a worker, student, or visitor. The person being sponsored may be eligible for an Open Work Permit, allowing him/her to work for any employer in Canada while the sponsorship application is being processed.

It doesen't matter what situation you find yourself in, we at M. Khan & Company, will provide you with options. We can lay out these options in front of you, making sure you understand the full scope of your circumstances. Whether you are facing deportation or just want to immigrate , your situation can likely be very sensitive and urgent. Isin't it important that you understand all the options that you have before deciding? Contact us on +1 604-591-5824