Common Law Partner Sponsorship
Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their common-law partners for permanent residency, supporting family reunification. Common-law partners must have lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least one continuous year and provide proof of shared responsibilities and cohabitation, such as joint leases or financial accounts. Eligible sponsors must be over 18, reside in Canada, and intend to continue living with their partner in Canada. Once approved, the sponsored partner gains permanent resident status, allowing them to live, work, or study in Canada, furthering the country’s commitment to family unity. This program also provides a pathway to Canadian citizenship for the sponsored partner, fostering a sense of belonging and stability. By enabling loved ones to be together, Canada supports family growth and unity.
Before Applying
Representation Not Required:
- It is not mandatory to hire a representative to prepare or submit your application. However, if you choose to use assistance, ensure you review guidelines on who may provide advice, assist with forms, communicate on your behalf, or act as your representative.
Authorized Representatives:
- If someone is compensated for their services, they must be authorized to act on your behalf in the application process.
Filing a Complaint:
- If you have concerns about the assistance provided, you have the option to file a complaint.
Guide for Detailed Information:
- This guide has been designed to provide detailed instructions and support throughout the application.
Appendix for Key Definitions:
- Important terms used in the application process are explained in Appendix A.
Eligibility to Use This Application Package
Eligible Canadian Sponsors:
You can use this application package if you are a Canadian citizen, Registered Indian, or permanent resident of Canada who is at least 18 years old, and you wish to sponsor:
- Your spouse or common-law partner living with you in Canada, along with their dependent children.
- Your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner living overseas, along with their dependent children.
- Your dependent children.
Purpose of the Guide:
This guide is designed to assist with the preparation of:
- Your application to sponsor your spouse, partner, or dependent child.
- The permanent residence application for your spouse, partner, or dependent child.
Open Work Permit Option:
- If you are applying under the Spouse or Common-law Partner in Canada Class, your spouse or partner may also be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit. Refer to the section "Working and Studying for Spouses and Partners" for further details.
Alternative Sponsorship Package:
- If you are sponsoring a family member other than your spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child, refer to the sponsorship package for adopted children and other relatives instead.
Sponsor’s Obligations
Signing the Undertaking:
- As a sponsor, you must sign an undertaking agreement to provide financial support for the basic needs of your spouse or partner and their dependent children.
Avoiding Government Financial Assistance:
- You must ensure that the sponsored individuals will not need to request financial assistance from the government. If they do receive social assistance during the undertaking period, you will be required to repay any amount received and may be unable to sponsor others until it is fully repaid.
Binding Commitment:
- The undertaking is a legally binding commitment, meaning that you are obligated to provide support for the full length of the undertaking period, regardless of changes in circumstances.
