Family sponsorship

As of October 25, 2012, sponsored spouses or partners must live with their sponsor in a legitimate relationship for two years from the day they get their permanent resident status in Canada.

This applies to you if:

  • a permanent resident or Canadian citizen is sponsoring you,
  • you and your sponsor have been in a relationship for two years or less,
  • you have no children in common, and
  • CIC got your application on or after October 25, 2012.

If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada and at least 18 years old, you can sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada under the Family Class. These can be:

If your family member can become a permanent resident, they can live, study and work in Canada.

Sponsor your spouse, partner or dependent children

If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you may be able to sponsor your spouse, common-law or conjugal partner, or dependent children to come to Canada as permanent residents.

Sponsor your parents and grandparents

If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you may be able to sponsor your parents or grandparents to become permanent residents under the Family Class.

Your parents and grandparents may also be eligible to visit Canada for up to two years at a time under the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa.

Sponsor your adopted children and other eligible relatives

If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you may be able to sponsor a relative to become a permanent resident under the Family Class.