Family Reunification
Family Sponsorship
Canada values family unity. As a citizen or permanent resident, you can sponsor your loved ones to join you in Canada.
80,000+
Spouses/partners per year
15,000
Parents/GP per year
12 months
Spouse processing time
$0
No min income (spouse)
Sponsorship Programs
Choose the program that fits your family situation.
Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship
12 monthsIn Canada or abroad
Sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence.
Sponsor Requirements
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Prove the genuine relationship
- Commit to providing financial support (3 years)
Key Points
- Open work permit during processing (if in Canada)
- Option to apply from within Canada
- Interview possible to verify relationship
Dependent Children Sponsorship
12 monthsAbroad
Sponsor your biological or adopted children under 22 years old.
Sponsor Requirements
- Child under 22 years old
- Not married or in a common-law relationship
- Financially dependent on parent
- Biological or legally adopted child
Key Points
- Can be included in a spouse application
- Age locked at date of receipt
- Exception for children with disabilities
Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship
20-24 monthsAbroad
Annual program with lottery to sponsor your parents or grandparents.
Sponsor Requirements
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Meet minimum income requirement (3 years of income)
- Submit interest during open period
- Be selected in the lottery
Key Points
- Program typically opens in October
- Financial undertaking of 20 years
- Alternative: Super Visa (up to 5 years)
Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents)
2-3 monthsAbroad
Long-term visitor visa as an alternative to sponsorship.
Sponsor Requirements
- Invitation letter from child/grandchild
- Proof of host's income
- Canadian medical insurance (1 year)
- Medical examination
Key Points
- Stay up to 5 years per visit
- Multiple entries (10 years)
- No long-term financial undertaking
- Faster process than sponsorship
Ready to Reunite Your Family?
Family sponsorship is an emotional and complex process. We support you to maximize your chances of success.