Family Sponsorship Canada: How to Sponsor a Spouse, Parent or Child

Reuniting with family is one of the most meaningful reasons to immigrate to Canada. Family sponsorship is the official way Canadian permanent residents and citizens sponsor eligible family members — and CBR Services has helped many families navigate this process from Toronto and beyond. This guide explains who can be sponsored, the steps involved, and practical tips to strengthen an application.

Who can be sponsored?

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor: spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, dependent children, parents and grandparents (subject to program windows). Each category has specific eligibility requirements and documentation.

Family Sponsorship Canada eligibility requirements

Family Sponsorship Canada requires that sponsors must be 18 or older, living in Canada (or planning to return if sponsoring from abroad), and able to financially support the sponsored person for a set period (varies by relationship). Sponsors must not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability and must meet any income requirements for parent sponsorship.

Key steps in a Family Sponsorship Canada application

1. Determine the correct sponsorship category (spouse vs. parent vs. dependent child).

2. Complete sponsor and applicant forms — both sponsor and applicant have responsibilities.

3. Collect relationship evidence — photographs, joint finances, communication logs, travel records and affidavits. The stronger the evidence, the easier it is to prove genuineness.

4. Medical exams & police certificates — required for most applicants.

5. Submit the package to IRCC and pay the government fees.

6. Respond to IRCC requests and attend interviews if required.

Processing times & expectations

Processing depends on the category and the applicant’s country of residence. Spousal sponsorships generally process faster than parent sponsorships, but timing can vary widely. Prepare for multiple months of processing and maintain clear communication with your sponsor.

Common pitfalls & how CBR Services helps

• Weak relationship evidence: We guide clients in compiling compelling proof of relationship, including sworn declarations and supporting affidavits.

• Incomplete forms: Our quality control reduces errors that cause delays or refusals.

• Financial requirement confusion: We advise sponsors on required undertakings and income thresholds (especially for parent sponsorships).

• Refusal risk: If a refusal occurs, we analyze grounds and propose options: reconsideration, re-file with supplemental evidence or legal appeal where possible.

Tips to strengthen a family sponsorship application

• Keep organized, dated records of joint life evidence.

• Prepare a clear, honest cover letter that explains your relationship and timelines.

• Provide translations for non-English documents with certified translators.

• Consult a licensed paralegal early if you face criminal inadmissibility, prior refusals or complex family situations.

  
  

Ready to sponsor a family member? Book a family sponsorship assessment with CBR Services to receive a step-by-step plan and document checklist. → Family Sponsorship

FAQs

1. How long does spousal sponsorship take?Processing varies, but many spousal sponsorships take several months — check current IRCC processing times.

2. Can I sponsor my parents if I’m a permanent resident?Yes — permanent residents can sponsor parents and grandparents, subject to program rules and income requirements.

3. What happens if my sponsorship application is refused?We review the refusal and advise whether to request reconsideration, re-file with new evidence, or pursue appeal options.