Spousal Sponsorship in Canada — What You Actually Need to Know

The first question in every spousal sponsorship file is where your spouse or partner currently is.

Inland means your spouse is already in Canada on valid status. You apply together from inside Canada. The main advantage is that your spouse can apply for an open work permit at the same time, allowing them to work legally while the application is processed. Processing takes approximately 12–18 months. Your spouse must maintain valid status throughout — if their status is close to expiring, address that before choosing this route.

Outland means your spouse is outside Canada, or inside Canada but preferring to process through a visa office. Your spouse can travel freely during processing. Timelines vary significantly by visa office.

Both routes lead to the same outcome — permanent residence. The right choice depends on your specific situation.

You can sponsor a spouse or partner if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, not receiving social assistance (except for disability), and not subject to certain criminal convictions or a prior sponsorship default.

There is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorship.

Can my spouse work while the inland application is being processed?
Yes. An open work permit application can be submitted at the same time as an inland sponsorship application, allowing your spouse to work for any employer in Canada while waiting for a decision.

What if my spouse had a prior visitor visa refusal?
A prior refusal does not automatically disqualify your spouse. We review the reasons for prior refusals and address them directly in the sponsorship application.

How long does outland processing take from India or Pakistan?
Processing times through the New Delhi visa office currently average 12–20 months. Timelines change

—  check current estimates at ircc.canada.ca at the time you apply.