Do You Have Passport?
1. What is a Canada Partner Visa?
The Canada Partner Visa, also known as the Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship, allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or partner for permanent residency in Canada.
2. Who is eligible to sponsor a partner for Canada Partner Visa?
Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are 18 years or older, residing in Canada, and can financially support their partner may be eligible to sponsor.
3. Can I sponsor my partner if I live outside Canada?
Yes, Canadian citizens can sponsor their spouse or partner while living abroad, but they must prove their intention to return to Canada once the visa is granted.
4. What types of relationships qualify for the Partner Visa?
Married spouses, common-law partners (cohabitating for at least one year), and conjugal partners who are in committed relationships with sponsorship limitations qualify.
5. What is the processing time for a Canada Partner Visa?
Processing times vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months, depending on the application’s complexity and completeness.
6. What documents are required for the Partner Visa application?
Documents include proof of relationship, identification, financial statements, police certificates, medical exams, and any relevant immigration forms.
7. Is there a minimum income requirement to sponsor a partner?
No, there is no minimum income requirement, but sponsors must show they can support their partner without social assistance.
8. How much does it cost to apply for a Canada Partner Visa?
The basic application fee is around CAD $1,050, with additional fees for biometrics and medical examinations.
9. Do I need to provide biometrics for the Partner Visa?
Yes, biometrics (fingerprints and photos) are usually required as part of the application process.
10. Can my partner work in Canada while waiting for the visa?
Yes, if your partner is in Canada, they can apply for an open work permit while their application is being processed.
11. Is there an interview process for the Canada Partner Visa?
Not all applications require an interview, but immigration officers may request one to verify the relationship.
12. What happens if my partner’s application is refused?
If refused, you may appeal the decision within a specified timeframe or submit a new application addressing the issues raised.
13. Can I sponsor a partner more than once?
Yes, but there is a five-year waiting period between sponsorships if the sponsor was previously sponsored as a spouse or partner.
14. Does my partner need a police clearance certificate?
Yes, police certificates are required for all countries where your partner has lived for six months or more since age 18.
15. What is a common-law relationship?
A common-law relationship is one where partners have lived together continuously for at least one year in a marriage-like relationship.
16. Can we include children in the Partner Visa application?
Yes, dependent children can be included in the application, but additional documents and fees apply.
17. How do I prove my relationship for the Partner Visa?
Proof includes joint bank accounts, photos, communication logs, joint leases, travel history, and affidavits from family and friends.
18. Can I apply for a Partner Visa if I am on a temporary visa in Canada?
Yes, temporary residents can apply for an inland sponsorship if they meet eligibility requirements.
19. What is the difference between inland and outland sponsorship?
Inland sponsorship is for partners living in Canada, while outland is for those living outside Canada during application.
20. Can my partner study in Canada on the Partner Visa?
Yes, once granted, the Partner Visa allows the spouse or partner to live, work, and study in Canada.
21. What if we get separated during the application process?
If separation occurs, the sponsorship must be withdrawn, as the relationship must be ongoing to qualify.
22. How long does the sponsored partner have to stay in Canada after receiving the visa?
There is no specific stay requirement, but they must meet residency requirements to maintain permanent residency.
23. Can I travel while my partner’s application is being processed?
Yes, sponsors can travel, but they must remain in contact with immigration authorities if requested.
24. How do I track my partner’s application status?
You can track the status of the application online using the Government of Canada’s IRCC portal.
25. Are there any restrictions on locations where my partner can live in Canada?
No, sponsored partners are free to live and move anywhere in Canada after receiving their permanent residence.
26. Can my partner include their family members in the application?
Only dependent children can be included; other family members would need separate sponsorship applications.
27. What is the Right of Permanent Residence Fee?
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is CAD $515, payable by the sponsor as part of the application cost.
28. How soon can my partner get Canadian citizenship?
Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after fulfilling the physical presence requirement, typically 3 years out of 5.
29. Can I sponsor my partner if I am on social assistance?
No, sponsors cannot be on social assistance for reasons other than disability and must prove financial stability.
30. Where can I find more information about the Canada Partner Visa?
More information is available on the official Canada immigration website.