Maple News reports that Canadian citizens and permanent residents can bring their spouse or common-law partner from India to Canada through the spousal sponsorship program offered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This program is a key pathway for reuniting families under Canada’s immigration system.
To be eligible, the sponsor must be at least 18 years of age and either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You may sponsor a legally married spouse or a common-law partner, defined as someone you’ve lived with in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. Once approved, your spouse or partner can obtain Canadian permanent residency, giving them the right to live, work, and access public services in Canada.
Importantly, there is no specific income threshold required to sponsor a spouse. However, you must demonstrate your ability to financially support the sponsored individual and ensure they do not rely on public assistance. This can be shown through income, savings, or assets. Only those receiving social assistance due to disability are exempt from this restriction.
The IRCC also assesses the admissibility of the sponsored spouse or partner. Factors include security concerns, medical conditions, and criminal history. A thorough background check is part of this assessment to maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
One of the most critical aspects of the application is proving that your relationship is genuine. For married couples, this typically involves submitting a legal marriage certificate. Marriages legally performed in India are generally recognized by Canada. For common-law partners, documentation of cohabitation for at least one year—such as joint lease agreements or shared financial responsibilities—is required.
All documents must be submitted in English or French. If any documents are in Hindi or another language, you must provide certified translations that meet IRCC’s requirements. Incomplete or unverified translations can lead to delays or refusal of the application.
Maple News notes that spousal sponsorship remains one of the most compassionate and efficient ways to reunite families in Canada. However, careful preparation and thorough documentation are crucial for a successful outcome.
Applicants are encouraged to stay updated on IRCC guidelines and ensure accuracy when submitting their applications to avoid unnecessary delays.