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Don’t let anything stop you from your happily ever after. Here are 10 frequently asked questions if you want to sponsor your American spouse to Canada. Yes, you can include your/their children in this sponsorship application too!

Do I need a visa to enter Canada after marrying a Canadian citizen?

As friendly neighbors, if you have an American passport, you do not need a visitor visa to enter Canada. However, this visa is temporary, and you cannot work, study or do much else. It also needs to be renewed after 6 months.

However, once you start the PR process, you can apply for an open work permit for Canada once you’ve received your PR application number (AOR – Acknowledgement of Receipt). We’ll guide you every step of the way.

How do I apply for permanent residency in Canada after marriage?

Through Family Sponsorship Programs we can help you get this application on the road efficiently which will save you time, money and headache in the long run. As the spouse of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you qualify to also apply directly for PR.

What documents do I need to submit for a spousal sponsorship application?

Spousal PR sponsorships require a lot of different documents such as proof of relationship, financial information, identity documents, and more. Keep in mind the all-important theme, that your application must prove the genuineness of your relationship. The documents you submit paints your love story for an immigration officer who doesn’t know you. Don’t leave any gaps in you love story then!

How long does the process take for a spousal sponsorship application from the USA?

As an American seeking to start the process for spousal or common law sponsorship in Canada, the process can take upto 1 year. Typically, it ranges from 10-15 months, on a case by case basis.

Can I work in Canada while my spousal sponsorship application is being processed?

You’ll be pleased to know that you can legally be eligible to work in Canada. Typically, it follows this pathway:

• Submit the application for spousal or common law sponsorship
• Wait 1-2 month for the application number
• Apply for an open work permit, for which the processing time is 4-5 months

Do I need to prove that my marriage is genuine and not just for immigration purposes?

Absolutely. Every single document tells a story of relationship through various means, some through photos and others through testimonies and more. We will guide you on exactly what is required.

Can my spouse’s Canadian income and financial support affect my application?

While there are no minimum income requirements to sponsor your spouse and children for Canadian PR (as that would go against the Canadian government’s theme of family reunification), some basic criteria need to be met.

If your Canadian sponsor has declared bankruptcy, is collecting welfare or doesn’t work a job, they will have to provide additional explanation of these factors.

What are the medical and criminal background check requirements for the application?

As an American seeking PR to Canada through a spousal or common law sponsorship program, you will need to acquire an FBI clearance plus a police certificate from any other country you have lived for 6 months or more after the age of 18.

Meanwhile, the medical tests performed by IRCC look for transmittable diseases (TB, HIV etc.)  or illnesses that would pose a heavy burden on the medical system.

Can I travel in and out of Canada while my spousal sponsorship application is pending?

You sure can but seek our guidance on the matter as it varies case by case.  

What happens if my spousal sponsorship application is denied? Can I appeal the decision?

In the very rare chance your spousal sponsorship application to Canada is denied, there is an appeal process we will work towards, together. In complicated situations, the services of our lawyer acquaintances will be utilized.