What is “First Stage Approval”: Spousal Sponsorship

Spousal sponsorship process in Canada involves multiple stages that families navigate to reunite with their loved ones. Understanding the intricacies of each stage is crucial for families embarking on this significant and emotional immigration journey. Learn how to navigate them here!

From the initial gathering of documents of the application package to the eventual receipt of an IRR response regarding permanent residence, families must adhere to documentation requirements, address potential challenges, and stay informed about policy updates throughout the entire process of a spousal sponsorship application.

The ultimate objective is to secure permanent residence for the sponsored relative, fostering family unity within the Canadian context.

Process Stages of Spousal Sponsorship in Canada

What is First Stage Approval?

In the Spousal Sponsorship application process, “first stage approval” typically denotes the initial step where Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reviews the submitted application, determining whether the sponsor or principal applicant is eligible to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner. This stage is also known as “approval in principle” or “sponsorship eligibility approval.”

During the first stage, IRCC assesses the sponsor’s eligibility based on factors such as their relationship with the sponsored person, financial capability to support them, and compliance with sponsorship requirements. If the sponsor meets the eligibility criteria, a positive decision is issued, signifying approval to sponsor their spouse or partner.

It’s crucial to note that this first stage of approval does not constitute the final decision on the overall spousal sponsorship application.

I received a letter stating, ‘You have been approved in the first stage of processing.’ What comes next?

Successfully passing the first stage allows the process to advance to the second stage, which focuses on assessing the sponsored person’s eligibility and admissibility to Canada. This phase entails meticulous scrutiny of supporting documents, including medical examinations and security checks, ensuring the authenticity of the relationship and the sponsored person’s suitability for permanent residence in Canada.

If you want more information about how to gather supporting documents to prove that your common-law relationship is real and genuine, read our full article here: How to Prove Your Common-Law Relationship

When applying under the family class, also known as Outland Sponsorship, after receiving a favourable first-stage approval, the subsequent step involves transferring the application to the relevant overseas visa office for additional evaluation. During this stage, the visa office abroad assumes responsibility for processing the applicant’s section of the Spousal Sponsorship application. Processing times vary depending on the specific visa office assigned to the case, as each office may have its unique timelines for assessment.

Final Steps: Canadian Permanent Residence Process for Sponsored Spouses

Once the immigration authorities complete the processing of the Spousal Sponsorship Application outside Canada, two crucial documents are sent to the applicants: the Confirmation of Permanent Residence and, if necessary, a permanent resident visa.

Sponsored Relatives Outside Canada

The Confirmation of Permanent Residence serves as an official approval document, while the visa is provided for individuals from countries requiring it for entry into Canada, irrespective of their current location.

Upon receiving these documents, your family members can commence their journey to Canada, but it is essential to check the expiry dates on both the permanent resident visa and the Confirmation of Permanent Residence. Before these documents expire, your family members must meet with a Canadian immigration officer at a designated port of entry. The officer will conduct a final assessment and make the ultimate decision to grant entry to Canada as permanent residents.

Sponsored Relatives Inside Canada (Inland sponsorship)

For family members already inside Canada, the process involves meeting with an immigration officer to receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence. Upon scheduling an appointment, a letter will be sent detailing the required documents.

The immigration officer will then make the final determination regarding their eligibility to stay in Canada as permanent residents. In the event of a refusal, clear communication about the reasons for the denial will be provided, along with information on the appeals process for sponsors of spouses, partners, or children residing outside Canada.

Ready to embark on your journey to Canadian Permanent Residency through the spousal sponsorship program? Begin with our free online assessment! Let our dedicated Immigration Attorney meticulously evaluate your profile, reaching out to discuss your eligibility. Your path to a seamless spousal sponsorship application process starts today!