Intake of Spousal Sponsorship Applications
During the coronavirus pandemic Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to accept applications for spousal sponsorship and permanent residence but processing may be delayed.
“Offices in the Centralized and Domestic Networks will continue to process permanent residence applications where the principal applicant is in Canada and has overseas dependants, taking into account the delays that may occur. The principal applicant should not be granted permanent residence if their overseas dependants cannot travel. Clients will be contacted to ascertain next steps once travel is possible again.”
IRCC
To bridge the gap between applicant’s needs and their incomes, inland sponsored spouses or partners should apply for an open work permit.
Open Work Permit for Spousal Sponsorship
On January 30, 2019, IRCC extended the open work permit pilot under the Spouses or Common-Law Partners in Canada class until July 31, 2020. Consequently, the sponsored spouse or partner currently living inside Canada may apply for an open work permit along with the spousal sponsorship and permanent residence applications.
The video tutorial shows you how to prepare the open work permit application package, consisting of:
- the document checklist (IMM 5556);
- the application to change conditions or extend your stay in Canada (IMM 5710); and
- the work permit, the open work permit holder and the biometric fees.
Note that the immigration department updates its forms frequently. Consequently, best practice is to confirm the current version before submission. At the time of recording, the form and checklist were dated June 2019.
Depending on the stage of the file, you may submit paper applications to CPC- Mississauga or CPC-Edmonton and electronic applications online.
The open work permit application should be processed between 4 to 5 months. However, you may experience delays due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Video Tutorial: Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada – IMM 5710 (06 2019)
FAQ
How to apply for spousal sponsorship in Canada?
How to organize a spousal sponsorship application?
Where to submit a spousal sponsorship application?
How long to process a spousal sponsorship in Canada?
Can I withdraw my spousal sponsorship?
If you need help with your case, then connect with our spousal sponsorship consultant. Our Canadian immigration consultant can assist you to navigate your spousal sponsorship issues. Call +1.780.705.0679 today for answers to your spousal sponsorship questions or take our free assessment to find out whether you and your spouse or partner are eligible.
