Spousal Sponsorship Inside Canada
A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation
Spousal Sponsorship Inside Canada
The Spousal Sponsorship Inside Canada program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner who is already living with them in Canada. This stream provides an opportunity for couples to remain together throughout the immigration process, ensuring family unity while the sponsored partner transitions to permanent residence.
This category is officially known as the “Inland Spousal Sponsorship” stream under the Family Class of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is designed for foreign nationals currently residing in Canada with valid temporary status- such as a visitor, student, or worker. A major advantage of this route is that applicants can apply for an open work permit while their sponsorship application is being processed, allowing them to work legally in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Inland Spousal Sponsorship, both the sponsor and applicant must:
- Live together in Canada and maintain a genuine, ongoing relationship.
- Have legal temporary status in Canada at the time of application.
- Be at least 18 years old and free from any previous sponsorship default or inadmissibility.
- Not be in a relationship entered into primarily for immigration purposes.
Sponsors must also agree to financially support their spouse or partner for three years after they obtain permanent residence.
Application Process
- Prepare and submit the application package to IRCC, including proof of relationship, financial commitment, and identity documents.
- Apply for an Open Work Permit (optional) to continue working legally while waiting for approval.
- IRCC review and approval: After background, medical, and eligibility checks, successful applicants receive permanent resident status.
Processing times typically range from 12 to 16 months. During this period, it is crucial that the couple continues to live together in Canada.
The Inland Sponsorship stream offers stability and peace of mind to couples who wish to stay together during the PR process. At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, we guide clients through every step, from eligibility assessment and document preparation to application tracking and follow-ups with IRCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Inland applicants may apply for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work full-time in Canada while waiting for permanent residence approval.
If your spouse has implied status (i.e., applied for extension before expiry), they may continue to stay in Canada legally. Otherwise, it’s essential to restore status immediately to avoid application complications.
It’s not recommended. Inland applicants must remain in Canada during processing. Leaving the country could jeopardize the application if re-entry is refused.
