Family Sponsorship

Effective October 25, 2012, sponsored spouses or partners must now live together in a legitimate relationship with their sponsor for two years from the day they receive permanent residence status in Canada.

If you are a spouse or partner being sponsored to come to Canada, this applies to you if:

• You are being sponsored by a permanent resident or Canadian citizen

• You have been in a relationship for two years or less with your sponsor

• You have no children in common

• Your application was received on or after October 25, 2012

Learn more about the new conditional permanent residence measure for spouses and partners.

If you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, you can sponsor your spouse, conjugal or common-law partner, dependent child (including adopted child) or other eligible relative to become a permanent resident under the Family Class (FC).

If your family member is a permanent resident, they can live, study and work in Canada.

There are two different processes for sponsoring your family under the FC. One process is used for sponsoring your spouse, conjugal or common-law partner and/or dependent children. Another process is used to sponsor other eligible relatives.

Sponsor your spouse, partner or dependent children

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may sponsor your spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner, or dependent children to come to Canada as permanent residents. Learn more about sponsoring your spouse, partner or children.

Sponsor your other eligible relatives

If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you may be able to sponsor a relative to become a permanent resident under the FC. Learn more about sponsoring other eligible relatives.