IRCC is completely digitizing the application submission process for the country’s inland and outland spousal and common-law partner sponsorship programs with the goal of enhancing customer service.
As an alternative to the online application format, IRCC allowed candidates to apply through alternate channels for permanent immigration schemes, such as spousal sponsorship, prior to September 23, 2022. The process for spousal and common-law partner sponsorship programs has been simplified, with online applications only accepted for inland and outland sponsorship.
In the words of the IRCC, an online application process allows clients more flexibility to apply from their devices. As well as allows them to receive a quick confirmation that their application has been submitted successfully. In order to facilitate this, some immigration aspirants will be able to submit their applications online for other programs through the already operational Permanent Residence Portal, which has been in operation since March 31, 2021.
If applicants are unable to submit online and need accommodations, they should contact IRCC for an alternative submission format. If there is no request to return an application in advance of the transition dates. All applications that have not been submitted online by those dates will be returned to applicants.
Sponsorship programs for spouses and common-law partners
Sponsorships for outland or inland spouses and common-law partners are available on the following terms:
- It is required that you are at least 18 years old.
- Candidates must be either Canadian citizens, lawful permanent residents, or Canadian Indian Act-recognized Indians.
- Are residing or intend to reside in Canada?
- Not being eligible for social assistance due to a handicap.
- Be able to meet your fundamental requirements, your partner’s needs, and, if relevant, the needs of any dependent children.
- Make sure your spouse or partner won’t need government social aid.
A sponsor must also ensure the individual is at least 18 years old. As well as passes all necessary medical and background checks before they can enter Canada.
Sponsorship applications for spouses and common-law partners
Before applying for spousal or common-law partner sponsorship, make sure that both the sponsor and dependent applicant meet all requirements.
Moreover, when sponsoring a spouse or common-law partner. Two applications must be submitted simultaneously: one from the Canadian sponsor, asking for permission to sponsor their spouse or partner, and one from the dependent, asking for permanent residency.
Your application process now consists of four steps. Four steps are involved in sponsoring a spouse:
- You can access the application package online through the Canadian government’s website. Which includes detailed instructions on how to complete the form correctly.
- You will need to pay the following fees when you apply online:
- Each applicant must pay a processing fee
- It is necessary to pay a fee for the “Right of Permanent Residence”
- Fees for biometrics
- Fees charged by third parties, if applicable
- Follow the submission instructions provided in the guide you downloaded to submit your application through Canada’s Permanent Residence Portal.
- Documents required for submission should be submitted when prompted.
The sponsorship of a common-law partner or spouse is now complete. What about the additional immigration schemes based on permanent residence?
A timeline provided by IRCC indicates that all Canadian permanent immigration programs and categories will eventually switch from paper applications to online applications.
September 23, 2022: It consists of provincial nominees ( Express Entry); Quebec-based qualified employees; Adopting a child through immigration; Sponsoring of spouses or partners; Supporting qualified relatives; Sponsoring of dependent children; niece, sponsoring a grandchild, nephew, Northern and Rural Immigration Pilot Project, or sibling who is orphaned.
October 7, 2022: Selected Quebec investors; entrepreneurs selected by Quebec; self-employed individuals selected by Quebec.
October 14, 2022: Pilot program in agri-food; Startup visa; Permanent residency for holders of temporary resident permits.
On 21 October 2022 Pilot Programs for Home Support Workers, Home Child Care Providers (which will reopen to new applications on January 1, 2023), Humanitarian and Compassionate Reasons, and Self-Employed Individuals.
Atlantic Immigration Program on 28 October 2022.
