What is a Spousal or Common Law Sponsorship?
A spousal or common law sponsorship is a process in which a Canadian citizen or permanent resident sponsors their spouse or common-law partner to immigrate to Canada. The sponsor must meet certain eligibility criteria and agree to provide financial support for the sponsored individual. The sponsored spouse or partner must also meet certain criteria to be eligible for sponsorship. This process allows family reunification and enables spouses or partners to live together in Canada.
Are you considering sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner to come and live with you in Canada? The spousal or common-law sponsorship process is a wonderful opportunity for family reunification, but it can be complex and overwhelming. In this blog post, we will provide you with important information and tips to help you navigate the application process successfully.
Sponsorship Eligibility requirements
To sponsor your spouse or common-law partner to Canada, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, be at least 18 years old, and be able to prove that you can financially support your partner and that the sponsor meets the financial requirements for sponsorship. Your spouse or partner must also meet certain eligibility criteria, such as passing medical exams and security checks.
Documentation
Gathering the necessary spousal sponsorship documentation is a crucial part of the sponsorship application process. You will need to provide proof of your relationship, such as marriage certificates, joint bank account statements, or photos together. You will also need to submit financial documents to prove your ability to support your partner financially.
Application Process
The application process for spousal or common-law sponsorship can be lengthy, so it is important to start early and be patient. You must apply online, and you must pay the required fees. Once your application is submitted, it will be processed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and you may be asked to provide additional information or attend a Spousal Sponsorship interview.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Start the application process early to allow for any delays or additional requests for information;
- Double-check all documentation to ensure it is complete and accurate;
- Double-check all documentation to ensure it is complete and accurate;
- Be honest and transparent in your application to avoid delays or rejections.
Common reasons for refusal of spousal / common-law sponsorships:
1. Lack of genuine relationship evidence:
Immigration authorities may refuse spousal sponsorship applications if they believe that the relationship between the sponsor and the sponsored spouse is not genuine or legitimate.
2. Incomplete or inaccurate documentation:
Failure to provide all required documents or providing inaccurate information can lead to a refusal.
3. Financial ineligibility:
Sponsors must meet certain financial requirements to demonstrate that they can support their spouse financially. If the sponsor does not meet these requirements, the application may be refused.
4. Criminal record:
If either the sponsor or the sponsored spouse has a criminal record, this can lead to a refusal of the application.
5. Previous immigration violations and inadmissibility issues:
If either the sponsor or the sponsored spouse has violated immigration laws in the past, this can lead to a refusal.
6. Medical Inadmissibility:
If the sponsored spouse is found to be medically inadmissible, the application may be refused.
7. Previous sponsorship history:
If the sponsor has previously sponsored a spouse or family member and that sponsorship resulted in a negative outcome, this can impact the current application.
It is important to carefully review the requirements and guidelines for spousal sponsorship applications to avoid these common reasons for refusal. If the application is refused you may be eligible to enter the sponsorship appeal process.
Canadian spousal sponsorship or Canadian common law sponsorship to come to Canada is a rewarding experience that can bring families together. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documentation, and following the application process carefully, you can increase your chances of a successful sponsorship application.
If you need advice or assistance in preparing a sponsorship application, please contact one of our lawyers at Virtual Law Group Canada at (825) 437 8777, or via email to info@virtuallawgroup.ca
