Sponsor Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner

Living apart from the one you love is a difficult trial. Whether your partner is currently in Canada or abroad, our team deploys its full expertise to ensure your reunion becomes a permanent reality.

Is Your Relationship Eligible for Sponsorship?

Canada recognizes three types of unions for family reunification. Each category requires specific evidence to prove the authenticity of the relationship:

1. Spouse (Legal Marriage) You are legally married. The marriage must be recognized by both the laws of the country where it took place and by Canadian law.

- Key Proof: Official marriage certificate.

2. Common-Law Partner You are not married, but you have been living together continuously in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 months.

- Key Proof: Joint lease, shared bank accounts, and utility bills in both names at the same address.

3. Conjugal Partner This category is for couples living abroad who have been in a committed relationship for at least one year but cannot live together or marry due to legal barriers or oppression (e.g., religious laws, sexual orientation in certain countries).

- Key Proof: Demonstration of a deep bond of interdependence despite the distance.

The 3 Pillars of a Successful Application in 2026

A. Eligibility of the Sponsor

To be a sponsor, you must be at least 18 years old, be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and not be receiving social assistance (except for disability).

Note: If you were sponsored as a spouse yourself, you must wait 5 years after obtaining your permanent residency before you can sponsor someone else.

B. Authenticity of the Relationship

This is where IRCC is most demanding. A "weak" evidentiary file is the number one cause for refusal. Our team helps you compile:

1. Photos of your life together, travels, and ceremonies.
2. Chat histories and proof of financial support.
3. Official testimonials from family members and friends.

C. Specific Requirements for Quebec (MIFI)

If you reside in Quebec, a financial undertaking is required to ensure the sponsored person does not rely on social assistance.

1. Fees: MIFI fees for the examination of an undertaking application are $335 (2026 rate) for the first person sponsored.
2. Quotas: Until June 25, 2026, a cap of 10,400 applications applies to spouses, partners, and children aged 18 and over. Minor children remain exempt.

FAQ: Your Questions About Spousal Sponsorship