How to apply for Canada Spouse Visa?

The Canada Spouse Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence in Canada under the Family Class Sponsorship Program. This program helps families reunite and build a life together in Canada.

At Visas Avenue, we provide complete assistance to ensure your spouse sponsorship application is accurate, well-documented, and aligned with IRCC requirements.

What is a Canada Spouse Visa?

A Canada Spouse Visa lets the legally married spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident move to Canada as a Permanent Resident (PR). After being approved, the sponsored spouse can live, work, and go to school anywhere in Canada.

Different kinds of spouse sponsorship in Canada

1. Outland Spouse Sponsorship

• Application sent from outside Canada
• Good for spouses who live abroad
• Usually faster processing
• Right to appeal if denied

2. Inland Spouse Sponsorship

• Application sent from inside Canada
• Applicant must stay in Canada while the application is being processed
• Can apply for an Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria for Canada Eligibility for Spouse Visa Sponsor

The sponsor must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Be at least 18 years old
• Live in Canada (or plan to return)
• Not get social assistance (except for disability)
• Agree to support the spouse financially for three years

Eligibility for a Sponsored Spouse

The applicant must:

• Be legally married or in a real common-law relationship
• Pass medical exams
• Show police clearance certificates
• Show that the relationship is real and not just for immigration reasons

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Canada Spouse Visa

1. Eligibility Assessment
   Verify sponsor and spouse eligibility.
2. Document Preparation
   Collect personal, financial, and relationship documents.
3. Application Submission
   Submit sponsorship and PR application together.
4. Biometrics & Medical Examination
   Complete fingerprints, photo, and medical tests.
5. Application Review by IRCC
   Background checks and relationship assessment.
6. Final Decision & PR Approval
   Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued.

Canada Spouse Visa Document Checklist

Sponsor Documents

• Canadian passport or PR card
• Proof of residence in Canada
• Employment and income documents
• Sponsorship forms

Spouse Documents

• Valid passport
• Marriage certificate
• Wedding and relationship photographs
• Chat history, call logs, emails
• Travel records together
• Medical exam report
• Police clearance certificate

Well-organized relationship proof is critical for approval.

Canada Spouse Visa Processing Time

• Average processing time: 10–14 months
• Processing time varies based on:
  • Applicant’s country of residence
  • Background verification
  • Completeness of application

Canada Spouse Visa Fees

Fee Component	Approximate Cost (CAD)
Sponsorship Fee	75
Processing Fee	475
Right of Permanent Residence Fee	490
Biometrics Fee	As applicable

Can a Sponsored Spouse Work in Canada

Applicants applying under Inland Sponsorship can apply for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work legally in Canada while the PR application is being processed.

Some common reasons for refusing a Canada spouse visa are:

not enough or weak proof of the relationship

• Information that doesn't match up between documents
• Application forms that aren't filled out completely
• Previous immigration violations

Professional help greatly lowers the chances of being refused.

Advantages of Canada Spouse Visa: You can live in Canada permanently, work and study anywhere in the country, and get healthcare and social benefits.

The ability to apply for Canadian citizenship in the future

How Visas Avenue Can Help You:

• Free eligibility assessment
• Personalized documentation strategy
• Error-free application preparation
• End-to-end case management
• Dedicated immigration experts

FAQs

Is IELTS required for Canada spouse visa?

No. IELTS or any language test is not required for spouse sponsorship applications.

Can a permanent resident sponsor a spouse?

Yes. Both Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or partner.

Can I sponsor my spouse if I am unemployed?

There is no minimum income requirement, but the sponsor must show they can financially support the spouse and are not on social assistance.

Can my spouse stay in Canada while the application is in process?

Yes. If applying under Inland Sponsorship, the spouse can remain in Canada.

What if my spouse is on a visitor visa?

You can apply under inland sponsorship while the spouse is on a valid visitor visa.

Is an interview required for Canada spouse visa?

Interviews are not always required but may be conducted if IRCC needs additional clarification.

How do I prove a genuine relationship?

Through marriage certificates, photographs, chat records, call logs, joint finances, and travel history.

What happens if the application is refused?

Outland applications allow an appeal. Refusal reasons should be reviewed and addressed before reapplying.

Get a Canada Spouse Visa through Visas Avenue

Bringing families back together is a top priority for Canadian immigration law. Let Visas Avenue help you confidently and clearly sponsor your spouse.

Call Visas Avenue today for a FREE evaluation of your spouse visa for Canada.   `