Family spousal sponsorship is a process through which a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for Canadian permanent residence. The sponsor commits to supporting the sponsored person and their dependents financially and emotionally, while the sponsored person agrees to make efforts to support themselves.

Here are the key points regarding family spousal sponsorship in Canada:

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Sponsor Eligibility:
   • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident living in Canada, or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
   • The sponsor must be at least 18 years old and meet specific financial and other criteria.
2. Relationship Eligibility:
   • The sponsored person must be the sponsor’s spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner.

Application Process:

1. Submission of Sponsorship Application:
   • The Canadian citizen or permanent resident submits a sponsorship application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Submission of Permanent Residence Application:
   • Once the sponsorship application is approved, the sponsored person can apply for permanent residence.
3. Processing Time:
   • Processing times can vary, and it’s advisable to check the current processing times on the official IRCC website.

Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship:

1. Inland Sponsorship:
   • The sponsored person resides in Canada during the application process.
   • They may be eligible for an open work permit while the application is being processed.
2. Outland Sponsorship:
   • The sponsored person resides outside Canada during the application process.

Conditional Permanent Residence:

1. Conditional Permanent Residence Requirement:
   • For spouses or partners in a relationship for less than two years at the time of application, conditional permanent residence may apply.
   • The condition is removed after two years of cohabitation.

Appeals and Reviews:

1. Refusals and Appeals:
   • If the application is refused, there may be an opportunity to appeal the decision or request a judicial review.

Professional Advice:

• The sponsorship process can be complex, and applicants may benefit from seeking advice from immigration professionals or legal experts.

Recent Changes:

• Immigration policies can change, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest requirements and procedures.

This information provides a general overview, and specific details may vary depending on individual circumstances and any changes in immigration policies. Prospective sponsors and applicants are strongly encouraged to review the official guidelines provided by IRCC and consult with authorized immigration representatives for the most accurate and up-to-date information.