Family Sponsorship Canada
Reunite with Your Loved Ones
Bring your spouse, partner, children, parents, or grandparents to Canada. Expert guidance through every step of the sponsorship process — from eligibility to approval.
20+ Years Experience
Licensed by Law Society & CICC
Women-Led Immigration Practice
UNDERSTANDING FAMILY SPONSORSHIP
Family sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their family members to Canada as permanent residents. It’s one of Canada’s most important immigration programs, reflecting the country’s commitment to keeping families together.
Canada recognizes that family reunification is essential to successful integration and settlement. Each year, Canada welcomes over 80,000 family class immigrants — spouses, partners, children, parents, and grandparents who are sponsored by their loved ones already living in Canada.
The family sponsorship process involves two parts: the sponsor (you) applying to sponsor your family member, and the sponsored person (your family member) applying for permanent residence. Both applications are usually submitted together and processed as a package.
As a sponsor, you’re making a legal commitment to support your family member financially and ensure they don’t need social assistance from the Canadian government. This undertaking is a serious responsibility that typically lasts three years for spousal sponsorships and up to 20 years for parent and grandparent sponsorships.
At IPJ Immigration, we understand that family sponsorship isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about reuniting with the people you love most. We’ve helped hundreds of families navigate the sponsorship process, from straightforward applications to complex situations involving previous refusals, inadmissibility concerns, or relationship documentation challenges.
Whether you’re sponsoring your spouse, bringing your parents to Canada, or reuniting with your children, we provide the clarity, guidance, and support you need to bring your family together.
TYPES OF FAMILY SPONSORSHIP
Canada’s family sponsorship program covers several relationship categories. Understanding which category applies to your situation is the first step.
Sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to become a Canadian permanent resident.
Who you can sponsor:
Spouse:
A person you're legally married to. Your marriage must be legally valid in the country where it took place and under Canadian law.
Common-Law Partner:
A person you've been living with in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 continuous months. You don't need to be legally married, but you must have cohabited for the full 12 months.
Conjugal Partner:
A person you've been in a committed relationship with for at least 12 months but couldn't live together or get married due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., immigration barriers, marital status restrictions in their country). This category has strict requirements and is typically used when the first two options aren't available.
Key requirements:
- Both sponsor and sponsored partner must be at least 18 years old
- Your relationship must be genuine (not entered into primarily for immigration purposes)
- You cannot sponsor someone if you were sponsored as a spouse/partner yourself within the last five years
Two Application Options:
Inland Sponsorship (Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada):
- Both sponsor and sponsored partner must be living together in Canada
- Sponsored partner may be eligible for an open work permit while application is processed
- Cannot appeal if refused (but can request judicial review)
- Average processing time: 12 months
Outland Sponsorship (Spouse or Partner Outside Canada):
- Can be used even if your partner is currently in Canada (as a visitor)
- Sponsored partner can travel during processing
- Can appeal to Immigration Appeal Division if refused
- Average processing time: 12 months
Sponsor your parents or grandparents to become Canadian permanent residents and live with you in Canada.
Who you can sponsor:
- Your mother or father
- Your grandparents
- Your spouse's or partner's parents or grandparents (if you're sponsoring them together)
Key requirements:
For Sponsors:
- Must meet minimum necessary income (MNI) requirements for the past three consecutive years
- Income must meet or exceed Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30%
- Must sign an undertaking to financially support your parents/grandparents for 20 years
Income Requirements (2026 LICO + 30%):
Your total household size includes you, your co-signer (if any), dependent children, sponsored relatives still under undertaking, and the family members you're sponsoring.
Example: To sponsor 2 parents (family size of 4 including you and spouse):
Required annual income: Approximately $70,000+ for the past 3 years
Application Process:
IRCC typically opens a limited intake period each year. You must submit an Interest to Sponsor form during the window. If selected randomly, you'll be invited to submit a complete application.
Super Visa Alternative:
If you don't meet income requirements or want to bring your parents sooner, consider the Super Visa, which allows visits of up to 5 years at a time but doesn't provide permanent residence.
Processing time: 24+ months (varies significantly)
Sponsor your dependent children to become Canadian permanent residents.
Who qualifies as a dependent child:
Children under 22:
Your biological or adopted child who is under 22 years old and doesn't have a spouse or common-law partner.
Children 22 or older:
Your child who is 22 or older and has depended substantially on your financial support since before age 22 due to a physical or mental condition.
Key requirements:
- Proof of parent-child relationship (birth certificate, adoption papers)
- If child has another parent who isn't coming to Canada, you need their consent
- Child must pass medical and security checks
Adopted Children:
If you're sponsoring an adopted child, the adoption must be legally valid and you must meet specific requirements that vary depending on the adoption's location and circumstances.
Processing time: 12-15 months
In limited circumstances, you may sponsor other relatives such as siblings, nieces, nephews, or other family members.
Who you can sponsor:
Orphaned relatives:
Brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren who are orphaned, under 18, and not married or in a common-law relationship.
Any relative (if you have no other family):
If you don't have a spouse, partner, child, parent, grandparent, or sibling who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act, you may sponsor one relative of any age or relationship.
These categories have very specific requirements and limited applicability.
Not Sure Which Category Applies to Your Situation?
Every family’s circumstances are unique. We’ll help you determine which sponsorship category fits your situation and whether you meet all eligibility requirements.
SPONSOR ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
To sponsor a family member for permanent residence, you must meet specific eligibility requirements as the sponsor.
Basic Sponsor Requirements:
You must be:
- A Canadian citizen, OR
- A Canadian permanent resident, OR
- A person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act
If you're a Canadian citizen living outside Canada:
You can sponsor your spouse, partner, or dependent children as long as you show you'll live in Canada once they become permanent residents.
If you're a permanent resident:
You must be living in Canada when you submit your sponsorship application and throughout the process.
You must be at least 18 years old.
You must not be:
- In prison, charged with a serious offence, or bankrupt
- Receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability
- In default of any previous sponsorship undertakings, immigration loans, or court-ordered support payments
- Convicted of a violent criminal offence, any offence against a relative, or any sexual offence inside or outside Canada
Previous Sponsorship Restrictions:
Five-Year Bar:
If you were sponsored as a spouse or partner and became a permanent resident, you cannot sponsor a new spouse or partner for five years from the date you became a PR.
Default on Previous Undertakings:
If you previously sponsored someone and defaulted on your financial obligations, you cannot sponsor again until you've fully repaid the debt to the government.
Spousal and Dependent Children Sponsorships:
No minimum income requirement. However, you must show you can provide for basic needs and aren't receiving social assistance (except for disability).
Parent and Grandparent Sponsorships:
Must meet minimum necessary income (LICO + 30%) for the past three consecutive years. This is a strict requirement with no exceptions.
The Undertaking Commitment:
When you sponsor a family member, you sign an undertaking — a legal promise to financially support them and ensure they don't need social assistance.
Undertaking Periods:
- Spouse/partner: 3 years from when they become a PR
- Dependent children under 22: 10 years or until they turn 25 (whichever comes first)
- Dependent children 22 or older: 3 years
- Parents/grandparents: 20 years
- Other relatives: 10 years or until they turn 25 (whichever is longer)
This is a legally binding commitment. If the person you sponsor receives social assistance during the undertaking period, you must repay the government — even if your circumstances change (separation, divorce, financial hardship).
For parent and grandparent sponsorships, you may include a co-signer to help you meet the income requirement.
Who can co-sign:
- Your spouse or common-law partner (whether they're Canadian or not)
The co-signer must also meet all sponsor eligibility requirements and signs the same undertaking commitment.
PROVING YOUR RELATIONSHIP
The Most Critical Part of Spousal Sponsorship
For spousal and partner sponsorships, proving your relationship is genuine is the single most important factor in your application’s success. IRCC carefully examines all evidence to ensure relationships aren’t entered into primarily for immigration purposes.
What IRCC Looks For:
Your relationship must be real, not a marriage or partnership of convenience for immigration purposes.
- History of your relationship (how you met, relationship timeline)
- Communication records (emails, messages, call logs — particularly for long-distance relationships)
- Proof of cohabitation (if applicable)
- Financial interdependence (joint accounts, shared expenses)
- Social recognition of relationship (photos with family/friends, travel together)
- Commitment and future plans
- Large age gaps between partners
- Significant cultural or religious differences without explanation
- Short courtship periods before marriage
- Little communication or time spent together
- Previous failed sponsorship applications
- Sponsor has sponsored multiple previous spouses
- Lack of knowledge about each other's basic information
- Evidence of separate lives (separate residences, no joint finances)
Types of Evidence to Include:
- Wedding photos, engagement photos, relationship photos over time
- Relationship timeline and story (how you met, relationship milestones)
- Communication records (if long-distance or before living together)
- Photos with each other's families
- Travel records together
- Affidavits from family and friends
- Marriage certificate
- Wedding photos and videos
- Proof of wedding ceremony (venue contracts, invitations)
- Proof of 12 continuous months of cohabitation (lease agreements, utility bills, mail addressed to both at same address)
- Joint bank accounts or shared financial documents
- Joint ownership of property or assets
- Detailed explanation of why you couldn't marry or live together
- Evidence of significant barriers (immigration refusals, legal restrictions in home country)
- Evidence of attempts to overcome barriers
- Evidence of ongoing committed relationship despite physical separation
Our Experience Makes the Difference:
We’ve seen countless applications, we know what evidence strengthens your case and what gaps might trigger concerns. We help you compile a comprehensive, well-organized evidence package that tells your relationship story convincingly.
INLAND VS. OUTLAND SPOUSAL SPONSORSHIP
Choosing the Right Application Stream
For spousal and partner sponsorships, you have two options: Inland (spouse/partner in Canada) or Outland (spouse/partner outside Canada). The choice significantly affects your application experience.
Requirements:
- Both sponsor and sponsored partner must be living together in Canada
- Sponsored partner must have legal status in Canada (visitor, student, worker) or be eligible for status restoration
- Both must remain in Canada throughout the application process
Advantages:
- Sponsored partner can apply for an open work permit at the same time (if they have valid status)
- Work permit typically approved within 4-6 months
- May feel more secure being together in Canada during processing
Disadvantages:
- Sponsored partner cannot travel outside Canada during processing (may lose application)
- Cannot appeal if refused — only option is judicial review in Federal Court
- Must maintain legal status throughout (extensions may be needed)
Best for:
- Couples already living together in Canada
- Sponsored partner wants to work in Canada during processing
- Sponsored partner doesn't need to travel during processing
Processing time: Approximately 12 months
Requirements:
- Sponsored partner lives outside Canada OR is temporarily in Canada as a visitor
Advantages:
- Sponsored partner can travel freely during processing
- Can appeal to Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if refused
- No requirement to maintain status in Canada
- Can be used even if sponsored partner is currently visiting Canada
Disadvantages:
- No automatic work permit option
- May require interview at visa office in sponsored partner's country
Best for:
- Sponsored partner living outside Canada
- Sponsored partner needs travel flexibility
- Want the option to appeal if refused
- Relationship or application has potential complications where appeal rights matter
Processing time: Approximately 12 months
Choose Inland if:
- Your partner is in Canada with valid status
- They want to work while waiting
- They don't need to travel outside Canada
- Your case is straightforward with strong relationship evidence
Choose Outland if:
- Your partner is outside Canada
- Travel flexibility is important
- You want appeal rights if refused
- Your case has complicating factors (age gap, previous refusals, etc.)
Important: Even if your partner is in Canada, you can still apply Outland. Many couples in Canada choose Outland for the appeal rights.
We help you weigh the pros and cons based on your specific situation and choose the strategy that gives you the best outcome.
THE FAMILY SPONSORSHIP PROCESS
Step-by-Step: From Application to Approval
Understanding the family sponsorship process helps you know what to expect and when.
What Happens:
You and your sponsored family member gather all required documents, complete forms, and compile evidence.
Key Tasks:
- Confirm eligibility (sponsor and sponsored person)
- Gather identity documents (passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates)
- Compile relationship evidence (for spousal sponsorships)
- Obtain police certificates
- Complete medical examinations
- Gather financial documents (for parent/grandparent sponsorships)
- Collect supporting documents specific to your category
Our Role:
We provide detailed checklists, review documents for completeness, guide evidence gathering, and help with any complex documentation issues.
What Happens:
All forms are completed, application package is assembled, and submitted to IRCC.
Key Tasks:
- Complete all required forms accurately
- Write any required explanations or statements
- Organize documents logically
- Pay government fees
- Submit application through appropriate channel (online portal or paper)
Our Role (Professional Verified):
Review completed application, verify all documents are included, ensure forms are accurate, provide final checklist.
Our Role (Full Representation):
Complete all forms, organize entire package, submit application on your behalf as your authorized representative.
What Happens:
IRCC acknowledges receipt of your application and provides application numbers.
What to Expect:
- Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter or email
- Application number for tracking
- Confirmation that application is complete (or request for missing items if incomplete)
For Inland Spousal Sponsorships:
If open work permit was requested, work permit may be approved during this phase (typically 4-6 months).
What Happens:
IRCC reviews your application, conducts background checks, and may request additional information.
Possible Steps:
- Background and security checks
- Review of relationship evidence (spousal applications)
- Verification of sponsor's eligibility
- Review of financial documents (parent/grandparent applications)
- Requests for additional information or documentation
- Interview (if required — more common for spousal applications with concerns)
- Medical examination review
Processing Times (Approximate):
- Spousal/Partner (Inland): 12 months
- Spousal/Partner (Outland): 12 months (varies significantly by country)
- Dependent Children: 12-15 months
- Parents/Grandparents: 24+ months
Our Role:
Monitor application status, respond to IRCC requests promptly, provide additional documentation as needed, prepare you for interviews if required (Full Representation).
What Happens:
IRCC makes a decision on your application. If approved, your family member becomes a permanent resident.
For Approvals:
If sponsored person is outside Canada:
They receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and must "land" in Canada (arrive at port of entry, complete landing process).
If sponsored person is in Canada (Inland application):
They receive COPR and complete landing process within Canada (either virtual landing or appointment at IRCC office).
After Landing:
- PR card application automatically initiated
- PR card mailed to Canadian address within 8 weeks
- Permanent resident rights begin immediately
For Refusals:
You receive detailed refusal letter explaining reasons. Options may include:
- Appeal to Immigration Appeal Division (Outland spousal applications only)
- Judicial review in Federal Court
- Reapplication with strengthened case
- Addressing inadmissibility concerns and reapplying
Total Timeline Examples:
Spousal Sponsorship (Inland): 12-15 months start to finish
Spousal Sponsorship (Outland): 12-18 months (varies by country)
Parent/Grandparent Sponsorship: 24-36+ months
Dependent Children: 12-18 months
The process can feel long and uncertain. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
COMMON REFUSAL REASONS & HOW TO AVOID THEM
Understanding common refusal reasons helps you avoid them. Here are the most frequent issues we see:
For Spousal/Partner Sponsorships:
Relationship Not Genuine:
The most common refusal reason. IRCC doubts the relationship is real based on insufficient evidence, inconsistencies, or red flags.
How to avoid: Provide comprehensive relationship evidence, document your relationship timeline thoroughly, include varied types of evidence (financial, social, communication).
Marriage of Convenience:
IRCC believes the relationship was entered into primarily for immigration purposes, not genuine commitment.
How to avoid: Demonstrate history of relationship before marriage, show ongoing commitment, provide evidence of shared life and future plans.
Insufficient Evidence:
Not enough documentation to prove relationship or relationship milestones.
How to avoid: Submit thorough evidence package with multiple types of documentation spanning your relationship.
Misrepresentation:
Providing false information or concealing important facts (previous marriages, criminal records, etc.).
How to avoid: Full disclosure of all relevant information, even if potentially negative. It's always better to address concerns proactively.
Inadmissibility:
Sponsored person has criminal record, medical condition, or other inadmissibility issue.
How to avoid: Disclose and address admissibility concerns early. Criminal rehabilitation or medical inadmissibility solutions may be available.
Sponsor Ineligibility:
Sponsor doesn't meet requirements (receiving social assistance, defaulted on previous sponsorship, five-year bar, etc.).
How to avoid: Carefully review sponsor eligibility before applying. Resolve outstanding debts or wait until eligible.
Insufficient Income:
Sponsor doesn't meet LICO + 30% requirement for all three consecutive years.
How to avoid: Carefully calculate income requirements. Include all eligible income sources. Consider co-signer if needed.
Incomplete Financial Documentation:
Missing tax returns, NOAs, or employment letters.
How to avoid: Submit complete three years of financial documentation with all required supporting documents.
Relationship Not Proven:
Insufficient proof of parent-child or grandparent-grandchild relationship.
How to avoid: Provide birth certificates, family documentation, photos, and other evidence establishing relationship.
Incomplete Application:
Missing forms, signatures, documents, or required fees.
How to avoid: Use detailed checklists, review application multiple times before submission, ensure all forms are current versions.
Medical Inadmissibility:
Sponsored person's medical condition creates excessive demand on Canadian healthcare or social services.
How to avoid: Complete medical examination carefully. Seek advice if any medical concerns exist.
How We Help You Avoid Refusals:
Our thorough review process catches issues before they become problems. We've seen hundreds of applications and know exactly what IRCC looks for. We help you present the strongest possible case with comprehensive evidence, properly completed forms, and strategic responses to any concerns.
HOW WE HELP — YOUR TWO SERVICE OPTIONS
Family sponsorship applications require careful attention to detail, thorough documentation, and strategic presentation of your case. We offer two service levels to match your needs.
Option 1: Professional Verified
You prepare your application with our expert guidance and review.
Perfect for sponsors who want to be hands-on with their application but need professional oversight to ensure everything is accurate and complete.
- You're comfortable gathering documents and completing forms
- You want expert review to catch mistakes before submission
- You want to ensure your evidence package is strong
- You're looking for cost-effective professional guidance
Comprehensive Eligibility Assessment
We review both sponsor and sponsored person's eligibility and identify any potential issues early.
Detailed Document Checklist
Customized checklist for your specific sponsorship category and situation.
Evidence Gathering Guidance
Strategic advice on what relationship evidence to include (for spousal applications) and how to organize it effectively.
Form Completion Templates
Guidance on how to complete all required forms accurately.
Full Legal Audit
Once you've prepared your complete application, we conduct thorough review and provide detailed feedback and corrections.
Final Verification
Final review before you submit to ensure everything is complete and accurate.
Option 2: Full Representation
We handle everything for you from start to finish.
Perfect for sponsors who want complete peace of mind, have complex situations, or prefer professional management of their entire application.
- You want stress-free, fully managed application process
- You have a complex case (previous refusal, inadmissibility concerns, weak relationship documentation)
- You prefer a legal team to handle everything
- You value ongoing communication and professional representation
Complete Application Preparation
We prepare all forms, organize all documents, and compile your complete application package.
Strategic Evidence Package Development
We help you identify, gather, and organize the strongest possible relationship evidence (for spousal applications).
IRCC Communication
We act as your authorized representative and handle all correspondence with IRCC on your behalf.
Additional Document Requests
We manage any requests from IRCC for additional information or documentation.
Interview Preparation
If IRCC requests an interview, we prepare you thoroughly and can represent you at the interview.
Ongoing Support & Updates
Regular communication throughout the process from application to approval.
Still Not Sure Which Option Fits?
Book a free 15-minute discovery call. We’ll discuss your situation and help you choose the service level that matches your needs, timeline, and comfort level.
How We Charge: Clear, Fair, and Transparent
We believe you should know exactly what to expect. Our fees are straightforward, with no hidden costs or surprises.
WHY CHOOSE IPJ IMMIGRATION FOR FAMILY SPONSORSHIP
Experienced in Both Simple and Complex Cases
From straightforward applications to misrepresentation, inadmissibility, and procedural fairness letters, we bring over 20 years of experience to every situation — whether you need full representation or a guided review before submitting.
Warm, Human Support for Every Client
We take the time to understand your story, your goals, and your concerns. You’re never treated like a file number — you’re a person, and your journey matters.
ESL‑Friendly Communication
We explain every step in clear, simple language. No jargon. No confusion. Just steady, accessible guidance that supports both full‑service clients and those completing their own applications.
Thorough, Organized Application Preparation
Every form, document, and submission is reviewed with care to reduce delays and strengthen your application — including detailed reviews for clients who want expert feedback before submitting on their own.
Transparent, Predictable Process
You always know what stage you’re in, what comes next, and what we’re doing on your behalf. No surprises, no uncertainty
Clear, Steady Guidance You Can Trust
Immigration can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re preparing your application on your own. We provide calm, organized support so you always know what to expect and how to move forward.
A Women‑Led, Family‑Run Firm
Our approach is grounded in empathy, integrity, and genuine care — values that shape every interaction and every application we support.
A Lawyer and Immigration Consultants Working Together
Your application benefits from a team that combines legal insight with regulated Canadian immigration consulting. Our professionals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, and we maintain active memberships with CILA and CAPIC to stay current with evolving policies and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens your strategy, reduces errors, and ensures your case is reviewed from multiple professional perspectives.
Our Regulators
Our Associations
What Our Clients Say
Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and in limited circumstances, other relatives like orphaned siblings or nieces/nephews.
Processing times vary by category: Spousal/partner sponsorships take approximately 12 months, dependent children take 12-15 months, and parent/grandparent sponsorships take 24+ months.
No, there's no minimum income requirement for spousal or dependent children sponsorships. However, you cannot be receiving social assistance (except for disability) and must be able to meet basic needs.
You must meet or exceed Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30% for your household size for three consecutive years. The required amount increases based on family size and includes the family members you're sponsoring.
Inland requires both partners to live together in Canada, offers open work permit possibility, but has no appeal rights. Outland allows travel, has appeal rights if refused, and can be used even if your partner is in Canada.
Yes, if you apply Outland. Your spouse can visit if they qualify for visitor status. However, for Inland applications, your spouse cannot travel outside Canada during processing without potentially abandoning the application.
Yes, if you've lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 continuous months. You'll need proof of cohabitation for the full 12 months.
No, Canada doesn't recognize polygamous marriages. You can only sponsor one spouse or partner.
Only if you applied Outland. Inland applications cannot be appealed to the Immigration Appeal Division, but you can seek judicial review in Federal Court.
You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor parents/grandparents, AND you must meet the income requirements for three consecutive years. Recent permanent residents often need to wait until they have sufficient income history.
No, receiving social assistance (other than for disability) makes you ineligible to sponsor.
Yes, open work permits (obtained through Inland spousal sponsorships) allow work for any employer, including a business owned by the sponsor.
How Would You Like to Get Started?
You can reach us in the way that feels most comfortable for you. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can book a consultation. If you’re still deciding between Guided Application Review and Full Care Representation, you can complete a short questionnaire and receive a personalized recommendation within 24 hours.
Book a Consultation
Free 15‑Minute Discovery Call
A short conversation to understand your situation and help you choose between Full Care Representation and Guided Application Review.
Paid 45‑Minute Consultation
A focused session for specific needs such as strategy, refusals, restoring status, or detailed immigration questions.
Clear, practical guidance tailored to your case.
Start With a Guided Questionnaire
Complete a short questionnaire to help us understand your comfort level, your timeline, and the complexity of your situation. A licensed consultant will review your answers and get back to you within 24 hours with a clear, personalized recommendation.