Spousal sponsorship is a process that allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner to become a permanent resident of Canada. There are two ways to sponsor a spouse or partner: Inland and Outland.
Inland spousal sponsorship is for couples who are already living in Canada. The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and the sponsored person must be a spouse or common-law partner. Both the sponsor and the applicant must be residing in Canada in order to apply under this stream.
Outland spousal sponsorship is for couples who are living outside of Canada. The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and the sponsored person must be a spouse or common-law partner. The sponsor must provide financial support for the sponsored person for three years after they become a permanent resident. The sponsored person must also meet certain eligibility requirements, such as passing a medical exam and a security check.
Both Inland and Outland spousal sponsorship require the sponsor to provide a signed undertaking to the government of Canada. This undertaking is a promise to provide financial support for the sponsored person for three years after they become a permanent resident.
Inland spousal sponsorship is generally faster than Outland spousal sponsorship, as the sponsored person may not have to go through the medical exam (depending on the operational policy at the time). In addition, with an inland application, the applicant is eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit after receiving the Acknowledgement of Receipt (AoR) letter. However, Outland spousal sponsorship may be the only option for couples or the applicant who are/is living outside of Canada.
If you are considering sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner, it is important to understand the differences between Inland and Outland spousal sponsorship. It is also important to understand the requirements and the process for both types of sponsorship.
The content above is not intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind and may not be used for professional or commercial purposes. E&OE.
