There’s no doubt that family reunification is a major part of Canada’s immigration policy. This shows that the country is dedicated to supporting strong family bonds and integrating newcomers. If you are planning for immigration to Canada from India and once you settle, wish to bring your spouse or partner, Canada spousal sponsorship is the way to go. This is the best pathway for allowing PR holders and citizens of Canada to reunite with their loved ones.
But how soon can you bring your spouse or common-law partner to Canada?
Let’s find out.
Immigration through Family Sponsorship Over the Years
The 2023 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed that the Family Sponsorship Program is the second most popular way to move to Canada after Express Entry.
The report also showed a rise in the number of sponsored spouses and partners in Canada between the years 2018 and 2022. However, there was a slight decline in the number in 2020 - due to the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the processing time for sponsorship applications has increased, which poses a huge challenge to family reunification efforts.
Ways to Bring your Spouse or Partner Soon to Canada
As we discussed above about the increased processing times. The standard time for family class sponsorship applications is up to 12 months - which can honestly be extremely daunting. However, to address this concern, IRCC provides two alternative options which aim to lower the overall time of the application process.
Option 1: Open Work Permit
Your spouse can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). However, to the eligible, they need to meet the following requirements:
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Prove a genuine relationship with you (the PR holder or citizen)
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Included in PR application and have an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter that confirms that their PR application is being processed
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Live in Canada with their sponsor (you)
IRCC processes open work permits in 60 days. Further, your spouse or partner must also follow the extra steps involved in the process and submit the complete documents required for Spouse Visa Canada for visa approval.
Option 2: Visitor Visa
Your spouse or partner can also apply for visitor visa from India, also called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This visa requires them to meet the following requirements:
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Have a valid passport or other travel document
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Be in good health
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Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
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Be able to convince an immigration officer that you have ties back home like employment, financial assets, or family
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Have sufficient funds to stay in Canada
IRCC processes visitor visa applications submitted outside Canada within 14 days. Your spouse or partner may also need a medical exam and/or a letter of invitation from you (PR holder or citizen of Canada).
Canad’s Commitment to Family Reunification
In May 2023, IRCC launched many new measures that aim to strengthen the globally known family-class immigration. This was done to facilitate the family reunification program.
This was a much-awaited initiative that improved the processing tools for spousal TRV/visitor visa applicants and a temporary public policy enabling Open Work Permit extensions, only for those who meet the eligibility.
Beyond these, these measures underscore the commitment of Canada to fostering familial bonds and facilitating the integration of newcomers into society.
Ready to go?
It may be difficult to understand the complex process of a Canada spouse visa from India. Therefore, you need to get professional advice from one of the best Canada Visa Consultants in Ludhiana at Nationwide Visas.
Start your process today!
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