Spousal and Common-Law Sponsorship in Canada: The 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions

In this article, we break down the 10 most frequently asked questions about spousal and common-law sponsorship so you can navigate the process with confidence.

1. Does the sponsor need to have a minimum amount of savings?

The sponsor must be either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, but there is no minimum savings requirement to sponsor a spouse or common-law partner.

However, IRCC does require proof that the sponsor can financially support the sponsored person, so being employed or having reasonable savings helps demonstrate financial stability.

2. What is the definition of a common-law partner?

A common-law partner is someone with whom you have:

• Lived together continuously for at least 12 months, and

• A genuine, romantic relationship.

Same-sex partnerships are fully recognized.
Your 12 months of cohabitation can be in Canada, another country, or a combination of both—as long as the total adds up to one full year.

3. Can I get a work permit while waiting for my sponsorship to be processed?

Yes—if you apply from inside Canada.

Inland sponsorship applicants can apply for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work while waiting for their permanent residency.

This option is not available for outland (outside Canada) applications.

4. Can I travel outside Canada while my sponsorship is being processed?

It depends on how you applied:

• Inland sponsorship: Travel outside Canada is not recommended. Leaving the country may be interpreted as abandoning your application, and you may be denied re-entry.

• Outland sponsorship: You are free to travel if you hold a valid visa or eTA.
  
  

5. Can my partner also sponsor my children? Are there financial implications?

Yes. Your Canadian or PR partner can sponsor both you and your dependent children, as long as they meet IRCC’s definition of a dependent child:

• Under 22 years old, and

• Not married or in a common-law relationship

If children are included, the sponsor must meet the year’s Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) to prove financial ability.

6. What happens if our relationship ends before I receive PR?

If the relationship ends, the sponsorship cannot continue, because the program requires the couple to be in a genuine relationship.

You should notify IRCC immediately.
Failing to do so may lead to misrepresentation, which can cause serious immigration consequences for future applications.

7. What if my partner previously sponsored someone and did not meet the undertaking?

The undertaking is a legal promise by the sponsor to financially support the sponsored person and ensure they do not rely on social assistance.

If a previous sponsored person received social assistance, the sponsor must repay all amounts owed before they can sponsor someone new—including you.

8. Can the sponsor withdraw the application while it is being processed?

Yes. The sponsor can withdraw the application at any point before permanent residency is granted, even if the couple is still together.

However, once the sponsored person receives PR, the sponsor remains financially responsible for three years, as per the undertaking agreement. This cannot be cancelled.

9. What if the foreign partner loses their status in Canada during the process?

While IRCC may be more flexible in spousal cases, you should never allow your status to expire.

If your visitor, student, or worker status is about to expire:

• Apply to extend it, or

• Apply to restore your status within 90 days if it has already expired.
  

Maintaining legal status helps avoid complications and strengthens your overall immigration file.

10. What are the sponsor’s financial obligations, and how long do they last?

Once PR is granted, the sponsor is financially responsible for three years for:

• Their spouse or partner,

• And any dependent children included in the application.

If the sponsored person receives social assistance during this period, the sponsor must repay the government before being allowed to sponsor anyone else in the future—whether it's a parent, another partner, or an adopted child.

Thinking About Submitting a Spousal Sponsorship Application?

There are many important details to consider when preparing a sponsorship file, and mistakes can cause delays or refusals.

If you are planning to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner, book a consultation with Rita Benkhalti, our Senior Immigration consultant at North Horizon Immigration. We’ll guide you through every step of this meaningful process.