Download the application. If your prospective spouse lives outside of Canada, download the "Application to Sponsor a Member of the Family Class" packet from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website. If your prospective spouse lives with you in Canada, download the " Application for Permanent Residence in Canada (spouse or common-law partner). You can also contact the call center at 1-888-242-2100 to have an application packet mailed to you. You can place an order 24 hours a day through their automated system, or speak to a representative, between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
Complete the application packet. The sponsor fills out the sponsorship portion of the application, while the visa applicant will complete the permanent residence portion of the application. The sponsor must agree to support the applicant financially for at least three years.
Get a medical examination. The visa applicant must get a medical examination if they currently reside outside of Canada. The applicant must get an exam from a doctor on the list provided by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Any health problem that may present a public health risk will prevent a visa application from being approved.
Get a police clearance certificate. The visa applicant needs a police clearance certificate that shows their complete criminal history or lack thereof. Contact your local police department for their procedures on obtaining a police record check.
Pay the application fee. At 2010, the application fee is $550. You can pay online at the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website or pay at a bank or Western Union. If you choose to pay at a bank or Western Union, you must obtain an IMM 5401 receipt before you arrive at the bank to pay your fee. You can get a IMM 5401 receipt by ordering one from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website. No personal checks are accepted for either method.
Gather supporting documents. The sponsor needs a photocopy of his Canadian birth certificate, permanent resident card, or passport. The visa applicant needs a copy of their birth certificate, police clearance certificate, medical examination, passport, and two passport style photos. You should also provide proof of your relationship such as, a joint lease agreement, joint bank account, and joint credit accounts. The sponsor should be able to document proof of income.
Assemble your application package. You will need the application, fee payment receipt, and all supporting documents and mail. Your visa application will be processed in approximately six weeks. You can check the status of your application on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
Case Processing Centre -- Mississauga
P.O. Box 3000, Station A
Mississauga
Ontario L5A 4N6
