Maple News reports that individuals who sponsor a spouse or partner for Canadian permanent residency remain legally responsible for them, even if the relationship ends in divorce or separation. When you agree to sponsor a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner, you must sign a legally binding undertaking. This undertaking is a formal promise to financially support the sponsored person and their dependent children for a set period—three years—starting from the day they become a permanent resident of Canada.
This obligation includes providing basic necessities such as food, housing, clothing, and health services that are not covered by public healthcare, including dental and vision care. The sponsor must also ensure that the sponsored individual does not require government financial assistance. If social assistance is used during the undertaking period, the sponsor is obligated to repay those funds to the government.
It’s important to note that this financial commitment continues regardless of any changes in personal circumstances. According to Maple News, even if the marriage or relationship ends in divorce, annulment, or separation, the undertaking cannot be cancelled. The same rule applies if either party moves to another province or country, if the sponsored person acquires Canadian citizenship, or if the sponsor encounters financial difficulties.
The rules differ slightly in Quebec, where the undertaking duration and requirements may vary. However, the core principle remains the same—sponsors are accountable for supporting their partner during the agreed-upon period.
Sponsorship applications are carefully reviewed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure the relationship is genuine. Applicants are required to provide evidence of an authentic partnership, such as shared property documents, joint utility or phone bills, wedding invitations, photographs, or proof of cohabitation. If the relationship is deemed to be fraudulent or of convenience, the application will be denied.
If the relationship turns out not to be genuine after approval, the sponsor is still legally bound by the terms of the undertaking, unless the government independently determines that immigration fraud has occurred.
For immigrants and sponsors alike, understanding the enduring nature of the sponsorship undertaking is critical. It’s not just a gesture of support—it’s a legally enforceable commitment that survives beyond the personal dynamics of the relationship.
Maple News continues to monitor changes to Canada’s family sponsorship program and advises anyone considering sponsorship to review their rights and responsibilities carefully.