Bringing Your Loved One to Canada
Reuniting with your partner is one of the most rewarding goals an immigrant can have. Canada makes this possible through its spousal sponsorship and common‑law sponsorship programs, both part of the Family Class. The rules can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance you can move forward with confidence.
At Globe Immigration we have spent more than fifteen years helping couples prepare strong, genuine applications that stand up to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) review. Below is a clear, human‑friendly overview of what you need to know.
What Counts as a Sponsorship Relationship?
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Spouse – you are legally married.
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Common‑law partner – you have lived together in a marriage‑like relationship for at least 12 straight months.
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Conjugal partner – you have been in a committed relationship for at least one year but cannot live together or marry because of legal, cultural or immigration barriers.
IRCC examines each case carefully to be sure the relationship is genuine. Fraudulent marriages or partnerships will lead to refusals and possible bans.
Who Can Be a Sponsor?
A sponsor must:
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Be 18 years or older.
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Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada (citizens may live abroad if they plan to return once the partner arrives).
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Not be in default on previous sponsorship undertakings, immigration loans or court‑ordered support payments.
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Not have been sponsored as a spouse within the last five years.
Unlike many other family sponsorship streams, there is no set income requirement for spousal sponsorship, but you must sign an undertaking promising to support your partner for three years after they become a permanent resident.
Inland vs. Outland Applications
Inland sponsorship is for couples already living together in Canada. The sponsored partner can often apply for an open work permit while the application is processed, giving them the right to work and health coverage.
Outland sponsorship is filed while the partner lives outside Canada. Processing is usually faster and travel in and out of Canada is simpler, but the applicant may not be able to work in Canada until approval.
Choosing the right stream will depend on your unique circumstances, travel plans and immigration status.
Building a Strong Application
The most common reason for refusal is weak proof of a genuine relationship. You should gather:
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A detailed history of how you met and how your relationship developed.
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Wedding photos, travel stamps, chat logs and call records.
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Evidence of joint finances or shared residence, such as joint bank accounts, utility bills or a lease.
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Letters of support from family and friends who know your relationship is real.
IRCC officers are trained to look for consistency across your story and documents. Even small contradictions can raise red flags.
How Globe Immigration Helps
Our Toronto‑based team reviews every detail of your case, from eligibility to final submission. We prepare a clear relationship narrative, organise your evidence, and respond promptly to any requests from IRCC. When needed, we also assist with additional applications such as visitor extensions, open work permits or appeals.
Over the years we have guided hundreds of couples along this path, and we would be honoured to help you too.
