If you are a permanent resident or citizen of Canada and wish for your spouse to join you, the Canada Spouse Visa can facilitate this process. This guide will walk you through the essential requirements and steps needed to apply for this visa, ensuring you follow the correct procedure for a successful application.
Requirements for the Canada Spouse Visa
To apply for a
Canada Spouse Visa, several criteria must be met. Here are the key requirements:
- Proof of Marriage: You need to provide a marriage certificate to prove that you are legally married.
- Sponsorship: The Canadian permanent resident or citizen will act as the sponsor for the spouse. The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support the spouse in Canada.
- Commitment to Reside in Canada: Both the sponsor and the spouse must assure the authorities that they intend to live in Canada once the spouse receives the PR visa.
- Medical and Police Clearance: The spouse must submit a medical report and a police verification report. The visa authorities must be convinced that the spouse poses no threat to Canada.
- Understanding of Roles and Responsibilities: The couple must understand and commit to their roles and responsibilities under Canadian law.
- Additional Documents: Any other documents required by the authorities must be submitted.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canada Spouse Visa
1. Apply Online
As of September 23, 2022, all applications for the Canada Spouse Visa must be submitted online. If you cannot apply online due to disability or other accommodations, you can request the application in another format such as paper, braille, or large print.
2. Two Applications Required
There are two separate applications involved in the process:
- Sponsorship Application: The sponsor must apply to become a sponsor.
- Permanent Residence Application: The spouse must apply for permanent residence.
3. Steps to Sponsor Your Spouse
a. Apply to Sponsor
- Download and Complete Forms: The sponsor needs to download and complete the PDF forms included in the application package. Both the sponsor and the spouse must digitally sign these forms.
- Application Package: The application package includes a document checklist, necessary forms, and an instruction guide. It is crucial to read the guide carefully to fill out the forms correctly.
- Permission for Representation: If you intend to prepare the application for your family members or check their application status, you need to request permission and provide the appropriate forms.
b. Apply to Be Sponsored
1. Create an Account: The spouse must sign in or create an account in the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal.
2. Complete Digital Forms: The spouse needs to fill out several digital forms, including:
- Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
- Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
- Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
- Supplementary Information - Your Travels (IMM 5562)
3. Photo Specifications: One photo for each person in the application must be scanned and uploaded as per the online application instructions.
c. Work Permit
If the spouse already has a work permit, they can continue working as long as it is valid. If not, they may be eligible for an open work permit if they meet the following conditions:
- Live in Canada with the sponsor.
- Have received an acknowledgment of receipt that their permanent residence application is being processed.
Note: The work permit application must be submitted through the IRCC secure account, not the Permanent Residence Portal.
4. Pay Application Fees
The fees for permanent residence applications increased on April 30, 2024. If you paid your fees before this date but have not yet submitted your complete application, you must pay the difference. The fees generally include processing fees, the right of permanent residence fee, and the biometrics fee.
a. Biometrics Fee
In most cases, you must pay a biometrics fee when you submit your application. This fee covers the cost of collecting fingerprints and a digital photo.
b. Third-Party Fees
Depending on your situation, you may need to pay third parties for:
- Medical exams
- Police certificates
5. Submit Additional Information During Processing
During the processing period, the sponsored person will need to submit:
- Medical exams
- Police certificates (valid for one year from the date of issue, new certificates may be required depending on processing times)
- Biometrics (if the biometrics fee has been paid, a letter will be sent requesting biometrics, to be provided within 30 days)
6. Submit Your Online Application
Before submission, ensure that you:
- Answer all questions
- Electronically sign your application (type your full name exactly as shown on your passport)
- Include your processing fee receipt
- Upload all supporting documents
Incomplete applications will be rejected, requiring corrections and resubmission.
7. Get Updates About Your Application Online
If you and the person you are sponsoring meet the eligibility requirements, you will receive a request to link your application to an online account. This allows you to track and manage your application status.
Assistance from IRA Immigration
Navigating the Canada Spouse Visa application process can be complex. To avoid mistakes and streamline the process, consider seeking assistance from a reputable
immigration agent. IRA Immigration, based in Delhi, offers comprehensive services for
Canada immigration, including spouse visa applications. Here’s how IRA Immigration can assist you:
- Eligibility Check: IRA Immigration will first determine if the Canadian PR is eligible to sponsor the spouse and if the spouse is eligible to migrate to Canada.
- Document Verification: They will ensure all relevant documents, such as marriage certificates and proof of funds, are in order.
- Visa Category Selection: The experts will help select the appropriate visa category and assist in completing all related formalities.
- Application Assistance: They provide full support from application submission to receiving the PR visa.
- High Success Rate: Known for their high success rates, IRA Immigration is a trusted choice for many applicants.
For detailed information and personalized assistance, contact IRA Immigration. They offer a customer-centric approach, ensuring all your questions and concerns are addressed, guiding you through every step of the process.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada Spouse Visa involves careful preparation and adherence to the specified requirements and procedures. By following the steps outlined in this guide and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can enhance your chances of a successful application, bringing you one step closer to reuniting with your spouse in Canada.