Are you living with your partner but not legally married and planning to sponsor them for Canadian permanent residency? The common-law sponsorship program is one of the most effective pathways for couples who share a committed relationship but have chosen not to marry.

Many couples choose this route instead of marriage because it allows them to prove their partnership without needing a legal wedding, making it flexible and inclusive for diverse situations.

Through Canada’s Family Class Sponsorship, you can apply to bring your common-law partner to Canada as a permanent resident, provided you meet all the requirements and demonstrate your relationship is genuine.

What Is Common-law Sponsorship in Canada?

A common-law partner refers to someone you have lived with in a marriage-like relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. Unlike spousal sponsorship (for married couples), common-law sponsorship recognizes couples who are in committed relationships without a legal marriage certificate.This program is part of Canada’s immigration commitment to family reunification, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their partners.

Step-by-Step Common-law Sponsorship Process

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before applying, ensure both the sponsor and partner meet eligibility requirements.

• Sponsor must be:
  
  • A Canadian citizen or permanent resident
    
  • At least 18 years old
    
  • Not receiving social assistance (except disability benefits)
    
  • Able to financially support their partner
    
• Applicant (common-law partner) must be:
  
  • At least 18 years old
    
  • Living with the sponsor in a committed relationship for at least 12 months
    
  • Admissible to Canada (no criminal record, medical issues, or immigration violations)
    

Step 2: Choose Inland or Outland Sponsorship

• Inland Sponsorship:
  If your partner is already living in Canada with temporary status (visitor, student, or worker). They may also qualify for an open work permit while the application is being processed.
  
• Outland Sponsorship:
  If your partner is living outside Canada. This may be faster in some cases and allows them to travel in and out of Canada during processing.
  

Step 3: Gather Relationship Proof

Since you are not married, proving your relationship is genuine is crucial. Documents may include:

• Joint lease or mortgage agreements
  
• Utility bills showing the same address
  
• Joint bank accounts or credit cards
  
• Photos together at different times and places
  
• Affidavits from family/friends confirming your relationship
  
• Travel records together or joint itineraries
  
• Screenshots of social media chats, video calls, or consistent communication history
  
• Shared expenses or insurance policies
  

The more evidence you provide, the stronger your application becomes.

Step 4: Collect Required Documents

Both the sponsor and applicant need to prepare forms and supporting documents, such as:

• Completed sponsorship and permanent residency forms
  
• Identity documents (passports, birth certificates)
  
• Police clearance certificates
  
• Medical exam results (from an approved panel physician)
  
• Financial documents (tax returns, employment letters)
  
• Proof of relationship (as mentioned above)
  

Step 5: Submit Application to IRCC

• Pay the applicable fees:
  
  • Sponsorship fee
    
  • Principal applicant processing fee
    
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
    
• Submit your application package online or via paper (depending on IRCC guidelines).
  
• Ensure all documents are up-to-date and complete, as missing items can delay processing.
  

Step 6: Wait for IRCC Processing

The average processing time for common-law sponsorship is about 12 months, though it can vary depending on the case.

During this period, IRCC may request:

• Additional proof of relationship
  
• Updated documents
  
• Interviews (in rare cases, if they doubt the genuineness of the relationship)
  

Step 7: Receive Decision & PR Confirmation

If approved, your partner will receive permanent resident status in Canada. They can then live, work, and study in Canada as a PR.

If refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision with the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).

Tips to Strengthen Your Common-law Sponsorship Application

✔️ Provide as much relationship proof as possible.
✔️ Be consistent—documents, timelines, and forms must match.
✔️ Avoid gaps in cohabitation; explain clearly if they exist.
✔️ Double-check all forms and signatures before submission.
✔️ Always keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
✔️ Consider professional help from an immigration consultant for complex cases.

FAQs on Common-law Sponsorship

1. How long do you have to live together for common-law sponsorship?

You must live together in a marriage-like relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. Short absences for work or travel may be acceptable if you can prove cohabitation overall.

2. Can my common-law partner work in Canada while the sponsorship is processing?

Yes. If applying under inland sponsorship, your partner can apply for an open work permit once the application is submitted.

3. What happens if our application is refused?

You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply with stronger documentation, depending on the reason for refusal.

4. Do we need to show income to sponsor a common-law partner?

Unlike parent or grandparent sponsorship, there is no minimum income requirement. However, you must show you can financially support your partner and are not on social assistance (except disability).

5. Can we apply as common-law if we are in a long-distance relationship?

No. You must prove 12 months of cohabitation in Canada or abroad. However, you may be eligible under the conjugal partner sponsorship program if cohabitation isn’t possible due to reasons beyond your control.

Final Thoughts

The common-law sponsorship process in Canada is a powerful pathway for couples who aren’t married but share a committed relationship. With proper preparation, strong documentation, and attention to IRCC requirements, you can successfully bring your partner to Canada as a permanent resident.

If you want to ensure your application is strong and avoids unnecessary delays, working with an immigration consultant can make a big difference. At Argus Immigration, our experts provide personalized guidance, ensuring your journey to reunite with your loved one is smooth and stress-free.