How to Sponsor a Spouse From USA

In the realm of cross-border relationships, it is not uncommon for a Canadian and an American to unite in marriage and embark on a shared life in Canada. To achieve this, the Canadian citizen may choose to sponsor their American spouse or partner through the rigorous spousal sponsorship application process. This route applies to couples who are legally married or in a recognized common-law relationship. The immigration department, responsible for processing the sponsorship application, requires a comprehensive set of supporting documents to establish the authenticity of the relationship. However, assembling these documents can be an arduous task, demanding meticulous attention to detail and proper attachment within the application. Thus, the guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer specialized in spousal sponsorship to Canada becomes invaluable.

Exploring Sponsorship from Outside Canada

In some cases, the couple may find themselves residing in the United States while harboring dreams of immigrating to Canada after successfully completing the spousal sponsorship process. To begin this journey, the sponsor must file an application, subsequently reviewed by the immigration department to assess the sponsor's eligibility for sponsorship. With the assistance of an immigration lawyer, this process typically takes around two months.

Bring Your Spouse to Canada


Here's how we can help you:

  • Formulate a strategy based on your particular circumstances.
  • Collect and review supporting documentation to sufficiently establish the genuineness of your relationship.
  • Prepare you and your spouse or partner for any requested interviews.
  • Provide expert legal submissions in support of your application.
  • Communicate with the immigration authorities on your behalf to ensure you don’t miss anything, which could lead to significant delays.

If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer for spousal sponsorship, Matthew Jeffery has over 20 years of experience and specializes in handling spousal sponsorships with high success rates. To see if you qualify for spousal sponsorship, fill out our FREE Sponsorship Assessment form.

Essential Requirements for Sponsoring a Spouse from America:

The sponsor must be at least 18 years of age.

The sponsor must hold Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.

The sponsor must reside in Canada or provide compelling evidence of their intent to reside in Canada if the application is approved.

The sponsor must possess the financial capacity to support both the sponsored individual and their dependents.

Once approved as a sponsor, the application progresses to the Canadian visa office, where it may take up to 12 months for processing. Collaborating with an immigration lawyer expedites this process by ensuring timely submission of all required documents. Once approved, the American spouse's visa will be endorsed as permanent residency. Opting to apply for spousal sponsorship while outside Canada proves advantageous if the spouse/partner is employed or pursuing studies in the United States. This approach provides the foreigner with ample time to conclude their affairs in the US and meticulously plan their relocation to Canada.

Spousal Applications Within Canada

Should both partners find themselves residing in Canada, they may choose to apply for sponsorship while within the country. In this scenario, some American citizens opt to apply for a work permit while awaiting the processing and decision on the sponsorship application. Work permits are typically issued within four months, while the permanent residence application may take around 12 months. Throughout this period, it is advisable for the American spouse to remain in Canada. A work permit grants them the freedom to work and reside within the country without restrictions. Unless absolutely necessary, it is recommended to limit international travel during the application processing phase.

How We Can Facilitate Your Spousal Sponsorship Journey

Navigating the complexities of spousal sponsorship applications can be a daunting task, making it crucial to seek professional assistance. The Law Office of Matthew Jeffery specializes in spousal sponsorship, boasting a remarkable track record of success in uniting spouses and partners in Canada. By engaging our services, you gain access to our expertise, significantly increasing your chances of a successful application outcome. Let us accompany you on this unique journey, bringing your loved ones closer within the embrace of Canada's welcoming borders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Sponsorship of a Spouse from the USA