All routes: Canada
Canada · checked 04.08.2026
Family sponsorship
A citizen or permanent resident may sponsor a spouse or partner and dependent children; parents and grandparents have a separate programme, which IRCC lists as paused as of 2 August 2026.
Official guidance
Check the requirements before applying
Who it is for
- The sponsor holds a suitable status and meets the requirements
- A genuine family relationship
- An undertaking of financial support and no bars affecting the sponsor or the applicant
Documents
A basic preparation list. The competent authority creates the personal checklist based on citizenship and place of application.
- A valid passport and copies of its pages
- A completed application form and recent photographs
- The sponsor and applicant forms, civil status documents, evidence of the relationship, police certificates and the medical examination
- Proof of funds, accommodation and health insurance — where required
- A police clearance certificate, medical documents, translation and legalisation — if listed for the chosen category
Application steps
- 1Check which family category is open
- 2Assemble the full sponsorship and PR package
- 3Apply online and complete biometrics and the medical examination
- 4After approval, complete the landing or PR confirmation
After arrival
- The sponsor honours the financial undertaking
- The new resident obtains a SIN and health coverage
- Tell IRCC about changes in family or address while the case is in progress
FileLama Templates
Prepare your document package
You can type, save, and print these supporting documents in your account. They do not replace the country's official application form.
Document checklist
Tick off your passport, application form, translations, legalisation, insurance and the supporting proofs for your route.
Complete in your accountAccommodation and support letter
Prepare a free-form letter from your host about the accommodation and the costs they cover.
Complete in your account