Inland Spousal Sponsorship: guidelines, requirements, and benefits

Inland Spousal Sponsorship to Canada is a specific immigration program that allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residency while the applicant is already residing in Canada. It is designed to facilitate the reunification of couples who are in a genuine relationship and wish to live together in Canada.

The Inland Spousal Sponsorship program is administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the government department responsible for managing immigration processes in Canada. To be eligible for this program, the sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and meet certain other requirements set by IRCC.

One of the key requirements for Inland Spousal Sponsorship is that the sponsored person (the applicant) must already be physically present in Canada with valid temporary status, such as a visitor visa or work permit. The applicant must also maintain legal status in Canada throughout the sponsorship process until a decision is made on their application.

It is important to note that the Inland Spousal Sponsorship program has its own unique advantages and considerations. For example, it allows the couple to remain together in Canada during the application process, offering the opportunity for shared living arrangements and strengthening their relationship.

The sponsor is required to submit an application to IRCC, providing evidence of their relationship with the applicant, including proof of marriage or common-law partnership, as well as demonstrating their ability to support the sponsored person financially. The application also involves completing various forms, gathering supporting documents, and paying the required fees.

Once the application is submitted, IRCC will assess the sponsorship application, including conducting background checks and verifying the genuineness of the relationship. If the application is approved, the applicant may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work in Canada while their application for permanent residency is being processed.

Inland Spousal Sponsorship offers several distinct benefits for Canadian citizens and permanent residents looking to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residency. One major advantage is that the couple can remain together in Canada throughout the application process, allowing for shared living arrangements and the opportunity to further strengthen their relationship. Additionally, if the sponsorship application is approved, the sponsored person may be eligible for an open work permit, granting them the ability to work in Canada while their application for permanent residency is being processed. This not only provides financial stability but also allows the sponsored person to contribute to the Canadian economy and gain valuable work experience. Moreover, the Inland Spousal Sponsorship program promotes family reunification, fostering the establishment of a stable and loving home for couples in Canada. It is important to note that maintaining legal status within Canada and adhering to travel restrictions are essential considerations for the sponsored person during the process. Overall, Inland Spousal Sponsorship offers a pathway to unite families and create a supportive and fulfilling life together in Canada.

However, it also means that the applicant must maintain their legal status in Canada and refrain from traveling outside the country without proper authorization.

Overall, Inland Spousal Sponsorship provides an avenue for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residency, fostering family reunification and promoting the establishment of a stable and loving home in Canada.

At Akrami & Associates, our team of knowledgeable immigration professionals is dedicated to providing essential guidance and support to help you navigate the process smoothly. With our expertise, we ensure that you gain a comprehensive understanding of the timeline and requirements involved in your application. Trust us to provide the assistance you need to maintain a clear perspective and achieve a successful outcome in your sponsorship journey. Discover how our experienced immigration consultants can assist you in achieving your immigration goals. Get in touch with us today.

• Sponsor Eligibility:

The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a person registered in Canada under the Canadian Indian Act.

The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.

If the sponsor resides in Canada, they must intend to live in Canada during the sponsorship process. If the sponsor resides outside Canada, they must demonstrate plans to return to Canada before the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident.

• Relationship Eligibility:

The sponsor and the sponsored person must be legally married, in a common-law partnership, or have a conjugal relationship.

For common-law partnerships or conjugal relationships, the couple must have cohabitated for at least 12 consecutive months.

• Sponsored Person Eligibility:

The sponsored person must be in Canada at the time of submitting the sponsorship application.

The sponsored person must hold a valid temporary status in Canada, such as a work permit or study permit, and maintain legal status throughout the sponsorship process.

The sponsored person must not be inadmissible to Canada due to criminality, security reasons, health grounds, or other factors outlined by IRCC.

Additionally, both the sponsor and the sponsored person must provide genuine evidence of their relationship, demonstrating its authenticity and commitment. This includes documents like marriage certificates, joint bank accounts, shared bills, photographs, and correspondence.

Meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial for a successful Inland Spousal Sponsorship application. Once eligibility is established, the sponsor can proceed with preparing and submitting the application, including supporting documents, to IRCC for assessment.

Immigration policies can change over time, so staying updated with the latest information is essential for a smooth application process. At Akrami & Associates, we take pride in providing comprehensive support and personalized solutions. Our team will stay updated on the progress of your application and promptly communicate any updates or requests for additional information from IRCC. We will be by your side throughout the entire journey, offering guidance, expertise, and peace of mind.

Take the first step towards your dream of immigrating to Canada by contacting us for a consultation.

Processing time for Inland Spousal Sponsorship 

The processing time for Inland Spousal Sponsorship applications in Canada can vary depending on several factors. It is important to note that the information provided here is based on general guidelines and may be subject to change.

As of the current information available, the average processing time for Inland Spousal Sponsorship applications is approximately 12 months. However, it is essential to understand that this timeframe is not guaranteed and can vary in individual cases. Some applications may be processed faster, while others may take longer depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the completeness of the application, and the workload of the immigration authorities.

During the processing period, the application undergoes several stages, including the initial assessment, background checks, and verification of the relationship’s authenticity. These stages involve reviewing the application forms, supporting documents, and conducting interviews if necessary.

It is worth noting that certain circumstances can impact the processing time. For instance, if additional documentation or information is requested by the immigration authorities, it may extend the processing time. Additionally, external factors such as changes in immigration policies, resource availability, or unforeseen circumstances can also influence the timeline.

It is crucial to be patient during the processing period and avoid making any unnecessary inquiries or contacting the immigration authorities unless specifically requested. In most cases, applicants will receive updates or requests for additional information through the IRCC’s online portal or by mail.

While waiting for the application to be processed, the sponsored person may be eligible to obtain an open work permit, which allows them to work in Canada while their application is under review. However, it is important to ensure that all eligibility criteria for the open work permit are met and to follow any restrictions or conditions associated with it.

Trust Akrami & Associates to handle your Inland Spousal Sponsorship application with utmost professionalism, ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome. Let us navigate the complexities, provide you with expert advice, and make your journey towards family reunification in Canada a smooth and successful one.

Ready to start your immigration process? Book a meeting with our dedicated team and let us help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration.