The federal government allows a Canadian citizen or a Permanent resident to sponsor their partner become a permanent resident of the country. Under this program, you and your foreign partner will have to prove that you are in an authentic relationship that follows under below three categories:-
- Spouse – you are legally married,
- Common-law Partner – you live or have lived with your partner for at least 12 consecutive months in a marriage-like relationship,
- Conjugal Partner – you must have been in a committed relationship for at least 12 months but have not been able to live together because of cultural, religious or immigration barriers.
Note that Canada recognizes same-sex marriages/relationships, and your partner may be eligible to apply in one of the three categories above, provided both parties meet all the eligibility criteria. However, if you are married and the marriage took place outside of Canada, then it must be legally accepted in the country where it took place.
Two main options to apply for Spousal sponsorship are:-
- Outland Sponsorship – When you live in Canada, but your partner lives abroad
- Inland Sponsorship – You and your partner live together in Canada (for at least the duration of the processing of the application).
ELIGIBILTY CRITERIA:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Must be residing in Canada or are a Canadian citizen planning to return to the country.
- Must be able to support your partner financially.