New Spousal Sponsorship Rules Introduced By Canadian Government

The Government of Canada has announced that the long-discussed spousal sponsorship rules are now in effect. These rules will have a big impact on marriage immigration in Canada, and sometimes not for the better.

On December 15, 2016, the Liberal Government of Canada announced a number of major changes to the family sponsorship immigration process.

Spousal Sponsorship Changes:

  • Faster processing times
  • One application for all candidates inside or outside Canada
  • Simplified relationship questionnaire (fewer questions)
  • Medical exam no longer required up front
  • Police certificates now only required from current country of residence and country in which you spent most of your adult life (if different than current country)
  • Access real-time information related to your Spouse Visa Canada application online

These changes make the process of sponsoring a spouse to Canada more efficient than ever, but do not affect substantive regulatory or legislative family sponsorship requirements. Although it is now possible to sponsor a husband or wife to Canada faster than ever before, applicants will still need to demonstrate to Immigration Canada that all requirements for Canadian permanent residence sponsorship have been satisfied. The forms required to sponsor a spouse for immigration to Canada have also changed, so be careful not to use an outdated document checklist.

New Spousal Sponsorship Rules in Place to Combat Marriage Fraud

Immigration marriage fraud is a fraudulent exploitation of the Canadian spousal sponsorship program as a way to obtain permanent residency. In some cases, two people will marry in order for one person to obtain permanent residency, all the while their marriage is not legitimate and one of the spouses will soon split. In some of these cases, both spouses knowingly commit the fraud, while in other cases, the sponsoring spouse has been “duped” and the spouse they’ve sponsored simply takes off.

In worst case scenarios, the sponsor has been tricked and the sponsored spouse starts collecting welfare which the sponsor is responsible for paying back.

Unfortunately, while these cases are very rare only the worst of them seem to make the news.

What Are the New Spousal Sponsorship Rules?

When an individual sponsors someone to live in Canada as their spouse from another country, the two must live together in a “legitimate” relationship for two years, otherwise the sponsored spouse will lose their permanent resident status and could face deportation from Canada.

The new rule, still in effect as of 2017, is only for couples who have been married for less than two years and who do not have any children.

One of the main concerns is that a spouse who is being abused by their sponsor will be too scared to leave the dangerous situation for fear of losing their permanent resident status. The government claims that if there is evidence of abuse the two-year requirement will be waived… but how many people who are in a domestic abuse situation are able to stay safe and get help, let alone deal with immigration department bureaucracy?

If you are an honest couple, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about – but how do you prove your marriage is “legitimate” when the love you feel for one another is an intangible thing? It can be difficult.

If you need assistance with your spousal sponsorship proceedings or are concerned about losing your permanent resident status in Canada, please contact us right away.

Michael Niren

About Michael Niren

Michael is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. He is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section and the Associate Member of the American Bar Association. Read more

  • Rajkamal

    Hi, I am Rajkamal from India. I have a relationship with a widow in India for the past 5 years and we got married in the year 2016. She is 40 years old and I am 34 years old. She left to Canada by Feb,2015 and got her PR on her landing the same month and year. She have a daughter by her first marriage and she left her to me though she got PR for her daughter when she got. I am taking care of her 7 years old daughter for over 2 years. We decided to apply for the dependent visa and our file has reached Toronto on 27th July. Can anyone let me know when we can get the dependent visa?? Since she is in PR status, will we get the dependent visa faster?? Please do let me know @ rajkamal.pushparaj@gmail.com

    • Immigration Lawyer (rachel)

      Hi Rajkamal,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! We cannot know for certain when or if you will get your visa, as it varies on a case to case basis, and we are not the agency in charge of processing. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • meena

    Hi My sister married and bring her husband to Canada from Srilanka . But she have her property under her and her previous common law partner. they both in good books, they both wanted to keep that house for the investment purpose . not planning to shell now . my question is if it will interfere with sponsoring her husband.

    • Immigration Lawyer (rachel)

      Hi Meena,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! We would have to take a closer look at your case to better understand her situation and whether this would interfere with the sponsorship. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Kiran

    Hi, could you please let me know the processing time for spouse visa my husband applied in April 2016 and we have done with our medical and we hard a word with immigration as well they said everything is fine wait for sometime it’s been almost 18 months but we didn’t get any response as we heard the processing time is 16 months please helps us!!!! Thanks

    • Immigration Lawyer (rachel)

      Hi Kiran,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! Visa processing time can vary on a case to case basis, and we unfortunately cannot know for certain how long yours will take or why. Contacting the processing office may be of help. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • William balceda

    Hi im married for 6 years plus 2 year living together… i het my resident permanent on August 2017 but now we have a lots problems and i move on from her … i want know if that affect my resident or if she can take off the sponsor and send me back to my country

    • Immigration Lawyer (rachel)

      Hi William,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! We would have to take a closer look at your status to better advise you. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • B

    HI, My case is little difficult to understand. but please try to understand. I am in Canada on work permit and my husband is in India. i have applied for permanent residence under AINP program. I have done medicals for both and waiting for passport request. but my problem is my husband dont want to come in canada and wants divorce from me. so my question is what if he dont cross border and i do ? second question is what if he asks for divorce before two years ? we dont have any children yet and i dont want to go India as i have much scope as a career. please advise me if i loos my permanent residence if any of these things happen ?

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi B,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! I am sorry to hear about your current hardships. Although your case may sound difficult to most, we have helped thousands of clients in their time of need. We would love to help you during this time but we will have to take a closer look at you and your case. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Harvinder Kaur Smagh

    Hello.. My name is Harvinder Kaur Smagh. I am student in Canada. I just came here in May. I am married and want to call my husband to Canada.I am in Seneca college and studying Computer Engineering Technology diploma. I really don’t know what to do. Can you please help me and give some right suggestions?

    • Rachel

      Hi Harvinder,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! Your husband may be able to join you in Canada while you are a student there. One way to do so would be for him to apply for employment there and then a work visa. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Sehrish

    Hi Actually My Grandfather lived in Canada since 15 years With his Family Me & my Husband decide to move in Canada.I just Want to Know If my Grandfather spouse me & my Husband so Should we get visa for Canada.

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Sehrish,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! I don’t know which country you are coming from. This is important because you may not be required to have a visa to enter Canada for a visit but if you are looking to live in Canada you must always have a valid visa. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • JAGDIP KAUR

    Hello, I am Jagdip Kaur, I am at a study permit in Canada. I am married in India from 3 Months and husband is still in India, Can I invite him in canada?

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Jagdip,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! The time spent in Canada before sponsoring your spouse to Canada can depend on the person and their case. We have helped thousands of couples reconnect in Canada and we may be able to help you but first, we have to take a closer look at you and your case. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Edward

    Hello. I am a Sponsor for a newly arrived permanent resident. We applied for permanent residence status as common law from outside Canada; my partner’s (now ex-partner’s) resident status was obtained within 9 months, in early April of this year. My partner and I arrived in Canada in early May.

    For several reasons our relationship deteriorated quickly over the last 12 months and very recently decided to part our separate ways.  We thought that moving to Canada would help our relationship, but it actually had the opposite effect.

    I am previously divorced (in Canada) and have three young children.  I have significant financial responsibility associated with child and spousal support payments.

    My ex-partner is a 46 year old professional actively looking for work.  My ex-partner does not have any children and owns an apartment outside Canada. The money received from the apartment rental is sufficient for covering mortgage payments at home and minor expenses.  My ex-partner does not want to return to country of origin.

    As a Sponsor, I understand that I am responsible for my partner’s actions for three years, including paying any unpaid debts incurred through bank loans or lines of credit, as well as and claims for unemployment insurance.  As I will not know what benefits or debt my ex-partner could/will incur, I am concerned about the additional burden I might be incurring. As a Sponsor, what rights do I have?

    • Rachel

      Hi Edward,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! It can definitely be challenging to carry the responsibility of another individual as a sponsor, as well as determine the rights you have. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, as it will allow us to better understand the details of your case. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • sandy

    Hello im Sandy,
    My hubby is working in canada, But I am working in dubai. we got married before 3 years. Is there any possible to get spouse visa soon.

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hello Sandy,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! We have helped thousands of clients obtain spouse visas in Canada and we may be able to help you too! First, we must look at you and your case a bit closer. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • amita singh

    hi…..i m from India….is it possible to go to canada on spouse study visa……i got married on this new year i.e. on january 1, 2017

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hello Amita,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! You may be qualified to immigrate to Canada on a spouse study visa but we would have to take a closer look at you and your case. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Pranavi Kolanupaka

    Hi, sorry forgot to mention. I am from India and fiancee is currently working in India. I have come to Canada for May intake and pursuing 1 year health care program.

  • Pranavi Kolanupaka

    Hi, I am Pranavi. I am on student visa in Canada. I want to go and get married in August last week. My fiancee has done bachelors in science and has 6 years work experience in marketing. Can he apply for visitor visa and change it to work visa on arrival into Canada airport and how long the process takes and can he apply for spouse visa immediately after marriage?

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Pranavi,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! He may be able to apply for a visitor visa and change it to a work visa later on, but we would have to take a closer look at his case to determine what we can do. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Dineah

    Hii..
    Any info about for couple , hw can apply for pr in canada…m listen canada immigration found a new rule ..if any couple married at any country ..so if they couple aply for p r in canada …is the simple way ?
    Can u send detail..if u hav any kind of info about couple p r ?

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Dineah,

      Thank you for contacting us at VisaPlace! There may be a few different options for you and your partner to immigrate to Canada. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions, plus it will increase the chance of getting a visa approved. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about you and your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Paul

    Hello,
    I have applied for my wife’s PR file (outland) on 2014 and now its still in progress in Singapore. last month I applied for the GCMS notes and it was showing that Eligibility passed, Background check not started yet. Now I have contacted the visa office in singapore via MP office. They visa office now replied to the MP as that they will ask for the status of the sponsor (Myself). Before that they asked for the communication between me and my wife on MAY 2016.
    Can you please suggest that after almost 2.5 years what kind of status from me they can ask. Is this a bad sign. I am really worried and frustrated. As I do not have any hope as of now when they gonna conclude my file.

    Thank you

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Paul,
      Thank you for your inquiry, I’m glad you contacted us! I’m so sorry to hear about the hardships you have faced in your past immigration experiences. I can understand how it can be extremely frustrating not knowing the status you may receive after already applying. I would love to help you and your partner during this journey! I can assure you we can answer all of your immigration questions. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions plus it will also increase the chance of approval of the visa you are inquiring about. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about you and your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Sonia Zia

    Hi , My husband is a Canadian Citizen . We got married last year in December and then he went back to Canada after 2 weeks. We recently applied for Spouse immigration. Can you tell me how much time would it for the whole process to complete ? Considering my husband and his family has been living there for more than 15 years now.

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Sonia,
      I’m glad you have contacted us! We have helped thousands of clients in similar situations of not sure how long the visa process will take. Unfortunately, we would only know how long your visa would take if you were a client of ours. Hiring one of our immigration lawyers helps you during your visa process by providing step by step legal advice and conversation about your case.

      Please Sonia complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about you and your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Amulya

    Hello,
    I have few questions
    1.How much time will it take to get the sponser ship for the spouse.My husband wants to fly and apply for sponsor ship for me?
    2.I have a work experience of 5 years.Will it not be sufficient for me to work in Canada?
    3.Do I need to take up IELTS?If yes what should be the score to work in Canada

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Amulya,
      Thank you for your inquiry, I’m glad you contacted us! I can assure you we can answer all of your immigration questions. Hiring an immigration lawyer will help you get answers to all of your questions plus it will also increase the chance for approval of the visa you are inquiring about. Please, complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about you and your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to give you the best legal advice.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Ruh

    Hi. I am Ruh. My husband applyed for refugee and he accepted on january ,2016. And after his acception document sent, he applied for me and my daughter. We are waiting outside of canada. And our situation about refugee is protected person and all of us are waiting for Pr card. We learned accordi g to new law in canada , if 5 canadian people become sponsor for me and my daughter, we can apply for termporary permenent resident visa. Untill we stay in canada , the people who become sponsor for us, afford our financial. Do you have any knowledge about this law. Is it possible or we just have to wait for our Pr card.

    Thanks..

    • Immigration Lawyers

      Hi Ruh,

      I’m so sorry to hear about your hardships due to the refugee status rules and regulations. We would love to help you and your daughter have some more clarity of the Canadian laws, more specifically the time period for PR cards. We have dealt with many similar situations of people having to wait outside the country until their visas are approved. Please complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ it is just a quick and easy way for me to learn more details about you and your situation so that I will be able to advise you accurately and determine the best avenue for us to take to get you a proper visa here in Canada.

      The above response is for informational purposes only and does not form a lawyer-client relationship nor should it be construed to be legal advice.

  • Malyn

    Hi,

    May i know how much the cost for the entire process of outland sponsorhip or Family class. My husband is Canadian and we get Marraige last January 18, 2017 here in Phils

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Malyn. We will need to know more about the details of your situation in order to evaluate a fee. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Waqas Younas

    Hello dear concern,
    This is Waqas from Pakistan. I want some info about canada, I want to go there with my wife on behalf of her study so please tell me can we go there together from our home country pakistan? I.e On dependent or spouse visa?
    I am waiting for your response….
    Thanks

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Waqas. We will need to know more about the details of your situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • M.T

    Dear Sir

    i want to enquire that my wife is canadian national and i am living in Pakistan . can i come on Visit visa while my spousal application is in process ?

    if i come to Canada on visit ? can i apply to work permit visa while and request for change of status while my spousal application is in process ?

    is honey money pic is mandatory ?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello. We will need to know more about the details of your situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • bushra siddiqui

    hi my brother went u.k.on student visa.and he over stayed due to good job.now he got a proposal from canada for marriage. if the canadian citizen wife sponsor him.will he get the visa for canada?

  • Imran

    Hi.
    Well Sir, mine wife is Canadian Citizen and i am from Pakistan. My wife want to sponsor me but she have 7000$ student loan before 20 years ago and did not return till yet. So is there any chance that our sponsorship file can be rejected in this case?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Imran. We will need to know more about the details of your situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Henry

    Hi. My name is Henry. I’d like to ask you if it true that a sponsor can end relationship with sponsored spouse any time. Thanks

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Henry. We will need to know more about the details of your situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Ruqia Fiaz

    Hi, my husband apply for family sponsorship visa for me.he is Canadian citizen in apply on 1 august 2016 every thing is done and it also done my medical on 14 December 2016 but there is no response till today is am very worried… plz help me how much time will take it further? ??

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Ruqia. Since you applied without the help of a legal professional, your husband is the only that can make inquiries regarding your case.
      Regards, Muga

  • Lina

    Hello sir, my name is lina, I want to know how long the super Visa processing time is. I applied for super Visa for my mom on June 2016 after her medical check up I haven’t heard anything from them again. Thank you

  • Fatima slam

    Hi …I’m fatima …i applied spouse visa for my hudband on 12 nov 2016 …i got an e mail from embassy that they received my application …but after two months i didn’t get any approval letter or any other e mail…can u please guide me soon…
    Thanks

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Fatima. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Srikanth

    Hi! I am on open work permit and working in Canada and my wife is in India. I am trying to apply open work permit for her as well but when she booked an appointment for her medicals, they told that some rules have changed from Dec 15 and are asking for request docs from IRCC. Can you please explain the rules that have changed?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Srikanth. We will need to know more about the situation of your wife, and of your current visa situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • zeenat

    Hi there!
    my husband is in back home ,and i heard u have to stay for 3 months with him in order to prove ur merriage ,but because of the job i have i can only go for 1 month not 3 months is that true or not? please help.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Zeenat. There are many factors that are considered when determining the validity of a marriage; time spent together is one of them. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and answer all your questons. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Ali

    Hello my name is Ali .. I want to ask how much time will it take to sponsor spouse from Pakistan . does government changes anything ? What’s that ?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Ali. The processing times are set to change for the better. If you need help with your application to make sure that you are not making any mistakes, and so that you will have a legal team taking care of all the matters that may arise, then please contact us to book a consultation with one of our immigration professionals. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Aparna

    Hi…..My husband has applied for spousal Visa on 5th August 2016. Now I have checked the spousal processing time it’s stating that they will process the applications by the end of December 2017. How much time do they generally take to process the application.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Aparna. The CIC recently announced that they expect to reduce the processing times for spousal sponsorships.
      Regards. Muga

  • Saad

    Hello.just need to ask my wife submitted my application on 24 October 2016 and 7 seven she recived the email that she has met the requirements of eligbilty to sponsor her spouse we have forwarded case to london for processing very next day mississauga sent me another email that you have left year gap in background check part so i sent them another filled forum …which they have recived on 16 of november then i linked my application to online gckey …in that they saying eligbilty reviewing in process .and according to canadian immigration website they update it on daily basis so why they still stuck on eligbilty reviewing still in process as we received email like month ago that they already have processed eligbilty assessment …and just to let you know am pakistani national and my wife is canadian citizen

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Saad. Many people face the same difficulties as you when they fill in their application without the guidance of a legal immigration professional. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-416-410-7484 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Lovely Gamboa

    Hello there. My spouse holds a tourist visa, and he arrived here in June 2016. He left Canada for 2 weeks in October 2016. When he was re-entering Canada, he was asked (and kind of investigated) why his wife (myself) hasn’t applied for the sponsorship yet. He underwent a second screening at the airport and was asked the same questions. He thought they wouldn’t let him in. So in late November 2016 (just last month) we submitted his extension of stay application, In-land Sponsorship and PR application. But now, we want to go away for 2 weeks to another country for Christmas. He is hesitant and feels that Immigration might refuse him entry when we come back. Should we just stay? Will Immigration Canada really refuse him entry? Thank you so much.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello. Thank you for writing to us. When your inland sponsorship application is in process, it is not advised to leave the country, he may be refused entry upon his return.
      Regards, Muga

  • PKAUR

    Hi,

    I am PR and married since Feb 2016 in India. Do i need to travel back to India to see my spouse within a one year period of marriage?

    Someone told me that you have to have go back within a year if your spouse don’t get PR by Feb 2017, Otherwise by Canadian law Ur marriage will be disqualified. Is that true?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Pkaur. Thank you for writing to us. If you Canadian immigration is not convinced of the validity of your marriage because of the time that you have spent away from each other, they may ask you for further proof of the marriage.
      Regards, Muga

  • Aakash Patel

    Hi… My self Aakash Patel, my point to ask you guys that, I have 3 year open work permit which I get on 10th of augest 2016 . Now I m going to get married on December 12 , 2016 and coming back to Canada on Jan 18. Thenafter, I m planning to apply spouse visa for my girl. Also I have a full time employment since I get my open work permit. So, what’s the easiest and confidential process to get my wife spouse visa. Please let me know by mail or I can contact you.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Aakash. Thank you for writing to us. There are two types of spousal sponsorship that you may want to consider: Inland sponsorship, and Outland sponsorship. Each one has it`s advantages, depending on your situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and your spouse. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Zenca

    Hi, my name is Zenca and I am a European citizen and marrying a canadian citizen. Once we are married, he will start the spousal sponsorship process. I was wondering if it is easier to sponsor a European citizen as a spouse to Canada and whether the process times are shorter as opposed to sponsoring a spouse from Asia for example.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Zenca. The approval time has more to do with if you are planning for an Inland spousal sponsorship, or an Outland spousal sponsorship. Have you already decided on which sponsorship best suits your needs? If you would like to explore both options and see which one best suits your needs, I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and your partner. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Anuj patel

    Hi my name is anuj I’m from india.my wife just arrived Canada 2 months back in Toronto further her study.my wife is planning to call me on her dependent at Canada.I just want to know does this process take long? Can I come on her dependent pls give me reply asap.tks.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Anuj. Thank you for writing to us. We will need to know more about the visa that your wife has, and more about our situation. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Umang

    Hello I am umang am planning to apply spousal sponsorship visa. I have competed my bachelor of commerce in india, after I went to UK and earned post graduate diploma in business management. Then I entered university and got MBA degree. My point is that do I need to apply WES (Credential Evaluation) are mandatory or not. Please Suggest me.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Umang. The spousal sponsorship application should not have a WES requirement. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best spousal sponsorship strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Monti

    My question is that I want to sponsor my husband from India we will marriage in Dec-2016. If I will decided to apply inland path how long it will take time. If he apply TRV how long time valid and he able to work. Please can you suggest me?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Monti. Thank you for writing to us. There are many factors to consider when you are trying to decide which spousal sponsorship path is best for you and your husband-to-be. If you are considering the inland sponsorship so that you can take advantage of the open work permit, you must act quickly. The open work permit is a pilot project that as it stands right now, may end on December 22, 2016. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Hindu

    I got married on March 2016 and my husband is holding PR. Planning to apply spousalsponer ship next month (outland ). I work here in india. After applying spousal Visa, if my company is willing to apply Canada work visa can I travel during this time?

    So pls answer first work visa can be applied ? then can I travel during this 18 month wait period.?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Hindu. Thank yo for writing to us. If your husband applies for an outland spousal sponsorship, you will be able to work in Canada if your company is willing to apply for a work visa for you. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Maninderdeep

    Hello i am maninder i want to ask is it possible to go canada by spouse visa me and my fionseh still live in india and want to go together there ?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Mainderdeep. In order to apply for a spousal visa, one of you needs to be a Canadian citizen, or a Canadian permanent resident.
      Regards, Muga

  • fred

    hi im a canadian citizen origin armenian from iran and my wife shes armenian from armenia i did apply for my wife outland and has been six mounth medical has been resolved and its been almost six mounth in process they send the aplication to turkey shes in armenia now best gess how long it takes to get the decicion made we already gave the police ckearence from where she stayed 6 mounths or more

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Fred. An outland spousal sponsorship can take 16 – 20 months to process.
      Regards, Muga

  • simar

    hi,
    I am from India and still living in India. However my wife applied for my spouse visa from inside canada. now when I check my online status then it says, 1. application received on 6 May,2016 , 2. Application started processing on 16 july,2016, 3. medical have been received. Now my concern is that how long CIC will take to make decision on my application from this point onwards,thanks.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Simar. Since you are still in India, your wife applied for an outside Canada spousal sponsorship. The total processing time can take up to 19 months.
      Regards, Muga

  • K.s.e.

    Hello,
    ME and my husband landed on January 2016 here as permanent residents under mpnp . Husband is the main applicant and I’m the dependent. We got married in 2008.6 months after landing my husband seperated from me and he is gonna file for divorce after completing 1year stay in here.. I’m so frustrated..will I loose my PR status. My best friend is willing to marry me he is from my home country. If I marry him after divorce will I be able to sponsor him as a spouse. Can I contact you regarding this matter.
    Thank you.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello. Thank you for writing us. Your situation is complex and when dealing with spousal sponsorship you must follow all the rules and regulations. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Saad

    Hi i am saad my question is i was on student visa in uk which was lasting till feb 2016 but in august 2014 uk revoked my visa and i stayed there illegal for like over a year then i volunteerly left uk now am married to canadian girl and i got police clearance certificate from uk and pakistan too my question is would that illegality in uk effect on my Canadian spouse visa as i already have police clearance certificate with * no trace * from uk thank

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Saad. You should not have a problem unless you have a criminal record. If you need help with your application to make sure that you are not making any mistakes, and so that you will have a legal team taking care of all the matters that may arise, then please contact us to book a consultation with one of our immigration professionals. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Kendrich

    Hi.im planning to attend my wedding. March next year.im just concern because my fiance has 1 child.can i sponsor both of them and what is the step for this situation

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Kendrich. Thank you for contacting us. As a Canadian citizen you can sponsor your wife (after you are married) and her children if they are under the age of 18 years old. There are two types of spousal sponsorship Inland, and Outside. If you would like to know more about the benefits of each program, I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • gaurav sharma

    Hi, my fiancee is in Alberta from the past 2 years almost on student visa. I have IT experience of over 4 years and I am in india. Can she nominate me for PR after we get married? And what are the processing times for spousal sponsorship? We have been together for over 6 years now.

    And what do you suggest, she should sponsor me after or before our marriage because she is still on student visa till december.

    Need your suggestion here please

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Gaurav. In order for your girlfriend to sponsor you through a spousal sponsorship she must either be a Canadian citizen, or have Permanent Residency. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • karan

    Is there any provision for spousal visa for a student,, like its in australia?., one partner studies and other gets a work visa .. pls clarify.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Karan. Yes there are provisions for a spouse to accompany on a study visa and have an open work permit.
      Regards, Muga

  • Divya Sonera

    I want my husband to come here ad soon as possible nd is there any way to spouse him as I m a student here nd I want his support

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Divya. You may have that option with the study visa that you have. We will need to know more information about your current visa and status. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you to have your husband join you in Canada. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • Jamaal

    how long take processing time from scandinavia.

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Jamaal. Are you considering Inland sponsorship? or Outside sponsorship?
      Regards. Muga

  • Sree

    If I go to Canada with a job visa, can my wife/Civil Partner come and stay with me under spouse visa? If yes, can she work/freelance too in Canadian lands?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Sree. Your wife’s status will depend on the type of work visa you will obtain. Do you have the details yet?
      Regards, Muga

  • Faraz

    Good evening Fellows!

    I recently got married in Pakistan, I have all the required documentation, certificates, medical, Generic application ready to submit and apply for my wife’s Family Class sponsorship. The only issue is, it has only been 6 months since we got married. Would I still be eligible to apply for sponsorship for my spouse from back home?

    • Muga Rajbhandari

      Hello Faraz. You are eligible, however the short duration of your marriage will cause more scrutiny to be brought to your case. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and your wife so that you do not experience any setbacks. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Muga

  • deep singh

    Hello sir …what does ‘medical results have been recieved’ on cic ecas?

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Hello Deep. If you have submitted a medical report with your application, this would mean that they have been received. You can contact the CIC and verify that your tests have been received.
      Regards, Vahe

      • deep

        Sir. I applied for criminal rehab.. and it got approved and then embassy sent me email asking for medical and police clearance.. . My question is.. i heard if the ecas status say medical results hv bin recieved.. that indicated my medical has been approved and now they r doing backrood check… is this true?

        • Vahe Mirzoyan

          Hello. You should contact the CIC to see the exact status of your case.
          Regards, Vahe

  • Ankita

    Hi, My husband is on PR in Canada. We got married on 3rd Dec 2015 and have no children as of now. He has filed my PR on 28th Feb 2016 from Canada itself. I am aware of the processing times, but still can u tell me how long does it take for CIC to open an application? And is it like that if someone applied after me his application will be processed before mine?

    Also, is this new rule for sponsorship applicable to me and my husband?
    Thanks

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Hello Ankita. It usually takes CIC four months to open a file. The new rules on spousal sponsorship are intended to make sure that the relationship is legitimate.
      Regards, Vahe

  • Deepak Negi

    Hi there i have a question, that i want to sponsor my wife from India we got married Feb 2016, i talked to cic they said if you want to bring your wife asap then apply for TRV and when she will be here then apply for permanent residence for her and at same time for open work permit as well, can you advise me in that regards, how does it work.

    Thanks.

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Hello Deepak. If you decide to go the route of an inland spousal sponsorship, your wife will have to remain in Canada for the duration of the process until she receives her permanent residency, but she will receive an open work permit after four months from the time that you submit your spousal sponsorship application. I am going to suggest that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and your wife. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Vahe

  • Jagwinder

    Canada spouse case visa processing times changing?

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Hello Jagwinder. The processing time for Inland spousal sponsorship is approximately 25 months. The processing time for Outside spousal sponsorship is approximately 18 months. The processing times do change due to the amount of cases that have to be processed.
      Regards, Vahe

  • Sara

    Hi, I am a Canadian Citizen and my Fiance is on a work permit. His permit expires on June 3rd. He has applied for the PNP a month ago but has not heard back yet. He has previously applied for the express entry but due to the glitch in the system, his points were affected. We are ready to do a court marriage right now if it means that the process will speed up. Our wedding is in July and we are scared that his paperwork wont be sorted till then. Please advise as to what we should do. Thank you

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Hello Sara. The single most important thing is to make sure that your fiancee does not go out of status! If he does he will have to leave the country. I am going to strongly recommend that you contact us to make an appointment to talk with one of our immigration professionals who will be able to plan the best strategy for you and your fiancee while you still have time. You can book an appointment by calling us at 1-855-886-8472 or online at http://goo.gl/JFZqPm
      Regards, Vahe

  • Bobby

    I sponsored my wife as an inland sponsorship. Its been 1 yr. I am a trucker. I am eligible to cross border but i was told by my immigration consultant that as a Sponsor even i cannot cross border to US eventhough its work related. I am canadian citizen. Are there any other ways.

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Thank you for writing to us Bobby. In order to answer your question quickly, I have to make a couple of assumptions. 1. You are a Canadian citizen, 2. You have the proper status to be able to truck goods back and forth over the the Canada-US border.
      If this is true, then there is no restriction on you, as the sponsor of an inland spousal application, to stay within Canada during the duration of the sponsorship. You can travel freely. Your spouse must remain in Canada during the full duration of the application.
      We have been practicing immigration law for over 18 years. If you ever find that you need any help in the future, please do not hesitate to contact us.
      Regards,
      Vahe

      • Bobby

        Thanks Mr Vahe for the prompt reply.
        I know that my wife cannot cross and i found information regarding that on cic website but there is nothing about sponsor crossing the border. My consultant has left a doubt in my mind. Now unless i see it in writing on cic manuals or other reliable link i am unable to shake that doubt (not that i am questioning you judgment ) but if you can provide me that link where it says i can cross for work..that be great and my consultant is due for an earfull too then..lol
        Thanks again.

        • Vahe Mirzoyan

          Hi Bobby. Since you are already working with an immigration consultant I suggest that you bring this up directly with them as soon as possible. As a Canadian citizen, you never lose rights when you sponsoring someone. If your consultant still feels that given all the parameters of your case, which they would be more knowledgeable that I am, you still are requiredto be in Canada during the entire process, then maybe you would need a Travel Document prepared by one of our lawyers that you can put your mind at ease and be used just in case the matter ever comes up.
          Regards,
          Vahe

  • Kamal

    I have 2 kids 5 year old marriage, both kids and wife are canadian citizens but we live in pakistan because i cant live without my family.. they have to go canada to sponser me.. this situtaion is just bizzare how can we live without family for years.. this scary thing avoids us to make an application.. who would understand such situation????

    • Vahe Mirzoyan

      Thank you for writing to us Kamal. You do have the option of being with your family during the Spousal Sponsorship process. This is called and Inland Application. The process takes approximately 26 months to complete. During that period you must stay in Canada, and not leave. You can be eligible for an Open Work Permit that would allow you to work in Canada while your Permanent Residency application is being processed.
      I will have one of our immigration professionals contact you to see how we can help you with your goal to be together with your family during the sponsorship process.
      Regards,
      Vahe

  • Rani

    I heard now spouse visa process is only 11 months for pakistan who applied after August 2014 is in

    • Mira Freiwat

      Hello Rani,

      Thank you for your inquiry. It is best to check processing times through the CIC website for the most accurate or up-to-date times for processing. It is presently showing that processing times for Spousal Sponsorship Applications is 40 months, not 11. MF

  • ruqia

    my husband is PR citizn of canada, can he apply super visa for me?? or any other fast way….. i am extremely depressed for him plz help me….

    • Mira Freiwat

      Hello Ruqia,

      Thank you for your inquiry. I can definitely help you to determine which way is best for you to be reunited with your husband here in Canada. But in order for me to do so, I would need to learn more about you to advise you accurately. Kindly complete this form for me http://www.visaplace.com/immigration-assessment/ and you will be contacted with the results once it has been reviewed. MF

The content and comments of this blog are not legal advise and and may not be accurate or complete. If you require legal advice, contact a licensed legal practitioner directly. If you post on this blog, you assume full responsibility for disclosing your identity to the public and VisaPlace nor its affiliates are not responsible for protecting your privacy nor your identity concerning your participation in our blog and you assume any risks in participating.

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