Who the Family Sponsorship is for
#- Canadian citizens or PRs sponsoring a spouse, partner, or child
- Sponsors applying for parents and grandparents (when intake is open)
- Applicants seeking family reunification in Canada
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility depends on the relationship type and the sponsor’s status in Canada.
Some streams require meeting income thresholds and undertaking obligations.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Sponsor eligibility and financial requirements
- Relationship evidence and supporting documents
- Medical exams and police certificates for applicants
- Sponsor undertaking and responsibility agreements
- Biometrics, when required by IRCC
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Sponsorship forms and relationship evidence
- Identity documents and passports
- Proof of sponsor status in Canada and income evidence
- Police certificates, biometrics, and medical exam results
Comparing options? Review Super Visa and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Confirm sponsor eligibility and required income level.
- Submit sponsorship and permanent residence applications together.
- Complete biometrics, medicals, and any additional requests.
- Receive PR decision and finalize landing steps.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Super Visa and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary by category and location.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Missing relationship evidence or inconsistent timelines
- Using outdated forms or incomplete signatures
- Not meeting sponsor income obligations when required
- Submitting incomplete police certificates or medical results
Common misconceptions
#- A sponsorship application guarantees entry to Canada.
- Marriage or birth certificates alone are sufficient evidence.
- Sponsors never have financial obligations.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Can I sponsor both a spouse and a dependent child?
Yes, eligible sponsors can include spouses/partners and dependent children on the application when permitted.
Do sponsors always need to meet income requirements?
Income requirements depend on the family class and program. IRCC provides program-specific rules.
Are processing times the same for all family sponsorships?
No. Processing times vary by family class, applicant location, and application completeness.
What proof of relationship is required?
IRCC requires documents that demonstrate the relationship, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and shared history evidence.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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