What is a Canada Spouse Visa?
The Canada Spouse Visa (Spousal Sponsorship) allows permanent residents (PR) and Canadian citizens to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to live permanently in Canada.
The spouse visa falls under Family Sponsorship, which is part of Canada’s immigration programs to reunite families.
Types of Canada Spousal Sponsorship
Inland Spousal Sponsorship:
For spouses/partners already living in Canada.
Allows applicants to apply for an open work permit while waiting for PR approval.
Outland Spousal Sponsorship:
For spouses living outside Canada.
Processed through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
Allows the spouse to travel in and out of Canada during processing.
Eligibility Criteria for a Canada Spouse Visa
The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
The relationship must be genuine and legally recognized (marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation for common-law partners).
The sponsor must prove financial stability and ability to support their spouse for at least 3 years.
The spouse must pass medical and background checks.
Fake or arranged marriages for immigration purposes can lead to visa rejection or a ban!
Spouse Visa Canada Processing Time in 2025
Application Type | Processing Time |
Inland Sponsorship | 12 – 18 months |
Outland Sponsorship | 10 – 16 months |
Processing time varies based on application completeness, background checks, and country of residence.
Canada Spouse Visa Cost in 2025
Expense | Fee (CAD) |
Spousal Sponsorship Application | 1,080 |
Dependent Child (per child) | 155 |
Biometrics | 85 |
Medical Examination | 250 – 350 |
Police Clearance (if required) | 50 – 100 per country |
Fees are subject to change. Always check the official IRCC website for updates!
Required Documents for a Spouse Visa Canada
For the Sponsor:
Proof of Canadian Citizenship/PR (passport, PR card, birth certificate).
Proof of Financial Stability (tax returns, employment letter, pay stubs).
Sponsor’s Relationship Statement.
For the Spouse (Applicant):
Passport & Birth Certificate.
Marriage Certificate (or Proof of Common-Law Relationship).
Photos, Messages, Emails, Travel History as Proof of Relationship.
Medical Examination & Police Clearance Certificate.
The more proof of relationship you provide, the higher your chances of approval!
Can You Work on a Spouse Visa in Canada?
Yes! If you apply for Inland Spousal Sponsorship, you can apply for an Open Work Permit while your PR application is being processed.
If applying from outside Canada, you need a separate work permit.
How to Apply for a Canada Spouse Visa (Step-by-Step Guide)
Check Your Eligibility – Ensure you meet the sponsorship requirements.
Gather Your Documents – Identity, marriage proof, financials, and relationship evidence.
Apply Online via IRCC – Submit your application on the official Canada immigration website.
Pay the Visa Fees – Application fee must be paid online.
Medical & Biometrics Submission – Attend health checkups and submit fingerprints.
Wait for the Visa Decision – Processing can take up to 18 months.
Submitting a complete and well-prepared application helps avoid delays!
What Happens After Getting a Canada Spouse Visa?
You will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
You must land in Canada within the validity period of your visa.
Your PR Card will be issued within 60 – 90 days after arrival.
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