Spousal sponsorship in Canada can be a complex process, and applicants often face various challenges along the way. It's essential to be aware of these challenges and how to overcome them to increase the chances of a successful application. In this blog, we will explore some common challenges in spousal sponsorship applications and offer guidance on how to address them.
1. Insufficient Proof of Relationship
Proving the authenticity of your relationship is crucial for a successful spousal sponsorship application. If you lack sufficient evidence, your application may be rejected. To address this challenge, gather a wide range of documents that demonstrate your relationship, such as photos, joint bank account statements, shared utility bills, and letters from family and friends.
2. Income Requirements
Sponsors in Canada are required to meet specific income requirements to demonstrate their ability to support their sponsored spouses or partners. If you fall short of these requirements, you may need to provide a co-signer or demonstrate alternative means of financial support, such as assets or savings. In many cases, a specific income or savings is not required but you must demonstrate that you can support your spouse. In these instances, you are precluded from applying if the sponsor is on social assistance. Keep in mind that social assistance is not unemployment. If you are on unemployment you may still be eligible to sponsor your spouse or child.
3. Criminal Inadmissibility
Both sponsors and sponsored individuals must pass background checks, and criminal inadmissibility can be a significant challenge. If either the sponsor or sponsored person has a criminal record, it may result in inadmissibility. In such cases, consult with an immigration lawyer to explore options for rehabilitation or overcoming inadmissibility.
4. Delays in Processing Times
Spousal sponsorship applications can experience delays due to various factors, including the volume of applications and incomplete documentation. To mitigate this challenge, ensure your application is complete and submit all required documents promptly. Additionally, consider checking the IRCC's website for the most up-to-date processing times.
5. Medical Inadmissibility
Medical inadmissibility can be a barrier to spousal sponsorship if the sponsored person has a medical condition that may pose a significant burden on Canada's healthcare system. In such cases, consult with a medical professional and immigration expert to assess the situation and explore potential remedies.
6. Misunderstanding of the Process
Navigating the spousal sponsorship process can be confusing, especially for first-time applicants. Misunderstandings and errors in the application can lead to rejections or delays. To address this challenge, educate yourself about the process, seek guidance from immigration experts, and consider attending information sessions or workshops offered by immigration organizations.
7. Language Proficiency
Language proficiency may be a requirement for certain spousal sponsorship applicants, particularly if they are not from English or French-speaking countries. To overcome this challenge, consider language courses or exams to improve your language skills and meet the language requirements.
Annie’s Advice: Keep your documents organized so that when it comes time to prepare the final application you can find everything you need. By the time you have gathered all of the documents, you may have a 200-page document to submit to IRCC. Keeping organized will make the process easier to complete when you get to the submission stage.
Conclusion
While spousal sponsorship in Canada may present various challenges, with careful preparation and guidance, these obstacles can be overcome. It's essential to be proactive, gather strong evidence of your relationship, and seek professional assistance when needed. By addressing these challenges effectively, you can increase your chances of successfully sponsoring your spouse or partner to live with you in Canada.
If you need further assistance, do not hesitate to contact Immigration Station Canada, where we offer professional immigration advice to help you through every step of the process.
Immigration Station Canada will work with you and guide you through the best process to achieve your goals, wherever they lead!
About Us
Immigration Station Canada is a dedicated, professional Canadian Immigration firm practicing out of Northumberland County, just east of Toronto, Canada. We serve clients from Kingston, Belleville, Brighton, Cobourg, Oshawa, the GTA, Guelph, Milton, Stratford, St. Catharines, and around the world. Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Anne C. McCaughey (Annie) is an experienced immigration services provider and a fifth-generation Canadian who values the immigration process and the unique individuals who immigrate to Canada to become part of the fabric of this wonderful country. If you would like to submit a question to Ask Annie, use the contact form.
How Can We Help? We do work permits, study permits, visitor visas, Express Entry, spousal sponsorship, family class sponsorship, and Canadian citizenship with expertise in Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications and Global Talent Stream applications. Please contact us if you would like assistance with your immigration application or to book an appointment.
