Canada Spousal Visa 2025 – Requirements & Application Process

Canada is famous for its welcoming immigration policies, and the spousal visa program is no exception.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident looking to sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner, this guide will walk you through the requirements and application process for a Canada spousal visa in 2025.

What is a Canada Spousal Visa?

A Canada spousal visa, also known as a spousal sponsorship, allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to immigrate to Canada.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a Canada spousal visa, both the sponsor and the applicant must meet specific requirements:

• Sponsor: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and demonstrate sufficient income to support their partner.

• Applicant: Must be the spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner of the sponsor, and meet the eligibility requirements for permanent residence in Canada.

Types of Spousal Sponsorship

There are two types of spousal sponsorship in Canada:

• Inland Sponsorship: For couples who are already living together in Canada.

• Outland Sponsorship: For couples who are living apart, either because the sponsored partner is living outside Canada or because they are in the process of immigrating to Canada.

Application Process

The application process for a Canada spousal visa involves several steps:

1. Put Together All Required Documents: Both the sponsor and the applicant must provide various documents, including proof of identity, marriage certificate, police certificate, and medical certificate.

2. Submit the Application: The sponsor must submit the sponsorship application, while the applicant must submit their permanent residence application.

3. Pay the Fees: The sponsor must pay the sponsorship fee, while the applicant must pay the permanent residence fee.

4. Wait for Processing: The application will be processed, and the applicant may be required to attend an interview or provide additional documentation.

5. Receive the Decision: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa.

Required Documents

The following documents are required for a Canada spousal visa application:

• Proof of Identity: Passport, birth certificate, or national identity card.

• Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of the marriage certificate.

• Police Certificates: From the country of residence and any country where the applicant has lived for six months or more since the age of 18.

• Medical Certificates: A medical certificate from a designated medical practitioner.

• Proof of Income: The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support their partner.

Processing Time

The processing time for a Canada spousal visa application can vary depending on the type of sponsorship and the country of residence. On average, the processing time is around 12 months.

Fees

The fees for a Canada spousal visa application are as follows:

• Sponsorship Fee: $75

• Permanent Residence Fee: $475

• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $490

What is the difference between inland and outland sponsorship?

Inland sponsorship is for couples who are already living together in Canada, while outland sponsorship is for couples who are living apart.

How long does it take to process a spousal visa application?

The processing time can vary, but on average, it takes around 12 months.

Can I work in Canada while waiting for my spousal visa application to be processed?

Yes, you can apply for an open work permit, which allows you to work in Canada while waiting for your application to be processed.

What is the minimum necessary income for sponsoring a spouse?

The minimum necessary income (MNI) varies depending on the size of the family unit. You can check the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most up-to-date information.

Can I sponsor my same-sex partner?

Yes, Canada recognizes same-sex marriages and partnerships, and you can sponsor your same-sex partner.

How do I apply for a spousal visa?

You can apply online or on paper. You can check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and to download the application forms.

Can I appeal if my spousal visa application is refused?

Yes, you can appeal the decision to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).

How long is a spousal visa valid?

A spousal visa is valid for as long as the applicant remains a permanent resident of Canada. Once the applicant becomes a Canadian citizen, they no longer need a visa.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I am a permanent resident?

Yes, as a permanent resident, you can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner.

What is the spousal sponsorship fee?

The spousal sponsorship fee is $75, and the permanent residence fee is $475.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I am receiving government assistance?

No, you are not eligible to sponsor your spouse if you are receiving government assistance for reasons other than disability.

How do I prove my relationship is genuine?

You can provide various documents, such as joint bank statements, rental agreements, and photos, to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine.

Can I sponsor my spouse if we are not married?

Yes, you can sponsor your common-law partner or conjugal partner, but you must demonstrate that you have been in a committed relationship for at least one year.

How do I apply for a spousal open work permit?

You can apply for a spousal open work permit online or on paper, and you must provide various documents, such as a copy of your passport and proof of relationship.