Maple News reports that Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner from Pakistan for permanent residence under Canada’s Family Class immigration program — a pathway built to reunite loved ones and strengthen family ties.
As part of its commitment to family reunification, Canada welcomes approximately 80,000 immigrants annually under this category. If your spouse or partner lives in Pakistan and you are either legally married or have cohabitated for at least one year as common-law partners, you may be eligible to sponsor them.
Once approved, permanent residence enables your spouse to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada, and provides access to public healthcare and other essential social services.
To qualify as a sponsor, you must be at least 18 years old and either a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident physically residing in Canada, or someone registered under the Indian Act. If you are a Canadian citizen living abroad, you’ll need to prove your intent to return and live in Canada with your spouse once they arrive.
There is no minimum income requirement for spousal sponsorships, but you must demonstrate the ability to financially support your partner and household without relying on social assistance (unless receiving it due to a disability).
The sponsored individual must also be at least 18 years old and pass mandatory criminal background, medical, and security checks. While people with a criminal history may be inadmissible, rehabilitation options may be available in certain cases.
Sponsorship applications require thorough evidence that the relationship is genuine. Married couples must provide official marriage certificates (marriages carried out legally in Pakistan are generally recognized in Canada). Common-law couples need to prove at least 12 consecutive months of cohabitation through documents such as lease agreements or shared utility bills.
All supporting documents not in English or French must be accompanied by certified translations that meet the standards set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The application process involves submitting two separate forms: the sponsorship application and the permanent residence application, both sent together to IRCC. Applicants residing in Quebec must also meet provincial requirements and sign a separate undertaking agreement.
Application processing times currently average around 12 months. All government fees must be paid at the time of submission.
Maple News reminds readers that careful preparation is key to a smooth sponsorship process, with accuracy in documentation playing a crucial role at every step.