Who Can Become a Sponsor?

To qualify as a sponsor under Canada’s Family Class Immigration, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act

• Reside in Canada (Canadian citizens living abroad must prove intent to return)

• Sign a sponsorship agreement committing to provide financial support

• Sign an undertaking to repay any government assistance received by the sponsored person

Who Can You Sponsor?

You may be eligible to sponsor the following family members:

• Spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner

• Dependent children (including adopted children)

• Parents and grandparents

• Orphaned siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren under 18, unmarried

• Other relatives under specific conditions

• Certain accompanying relatives of the above

Relationship Categories Explained

• Spouse: Legally married partner

• Common-law Partner: Lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 months

• Conjugal Partner: In a genuine relationship but unable to live together due to circumstances (e.g. immigration barriers)

• Dependent Children:

  • Under 22, unmarried

  • Over 22, financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition

Spousal Work Permit

Eligible spouses or common-law partners in Canada can apply for an open work permit while their sponsorship application is being processed, through the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class. They must maintain valid status as a visitor, student, or worker.

Sponsorship Obligations

As a sponsor, you’re legally responsible for the basic needs of your sponsored relative from the day they arrive in Canada. This undertaking is binding and remains in effect even if:

• Your relationship ends (e.g., divorce, separation)

• Your financial situation changes

Duration of Undertaking:

Note: Quebec has its own sponsorship obligations and additional requirements.

Sponsors Living Outside Canada

Canadian citizens living abroad may sponsor:

• A spouse

• A common-law or conjugal partner

• Dependent children

…but must prove intent to return and live in Canada once the sponsored person obtains PR.

Permanent residents cannot sponsor family members while living outside of Canada.

Sponsorship in Quebec

If you’re a resident of Quebec, you must:

• Meet Quebec-specific eligibility criteria

• Sign a separate undertaking agreement with the provincial government

You can sponsor:

• Spouse/common-law/conjugal partner

• Dependent children

• Parents/grandparents (with additional conditions)

• Orphaned relatives under 18

• Children for international adoption

Why Choose International Immigration Law Firm?

• Decades of combined legal expertise in immigration law

• Full assistance with eligibility assessments, documentation & government forms

• Representation across Canada, UK, USA, and beyond

• Direct consultation with immigration lawyers—not just agents

• Multilingual team available for client support

Begin Your Sponsorship Application Today

Bring your family closer—securely and legally. Our expert legal team is here to simplify the process and ensure a smooth transition to life in Canada for your loved ones.