Which Type of sponsorship should you choose to sponsor your spouse for Canada PR?

Besides being famous for its well-developed economy, Canada is also renowned for offering family reunification. Through this, Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for Canada PR (Permanent Residency). However, both (Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident) are required to meet the eligibility criteria.

Additionally, Canadian citizens pursuing these kinds of sponsorship are required to choose from between two options: 

• Inland Sponsorship 
• Outland Sponsorship 

This article will differentiate between these two sponsorship types and what is the most appropriate option you can choose based on your unique requirements. But, first, let us understand the meaning of each sponsorship type. 

What is Inland Sponsorship? 

Inland sponsorship applies when the sponsor as well as the sponsored individual are in Canada. A spouse or partner would be sponsored if he or she already has temporary resident status, for example, a visitor, student, or worker permit. 

Inland sponsorship would be suitable for those who are already living with each other in Canada and have no intention of moving outside of Canada during the processing period.

Key Benefits of Inland Sponsorship 

If you are applying for inland sponsorship, you can become eligible for the following benefits: 

1. Spousal open work permit (SOWP)

The option to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) is the most significant benefit of using the inland sponsorship route. This gives the sponsored partner the chance to work while their permanent residence (PR) application is processed, providing both financial and emotional stability to the couple.

2. Staying Together 

The couple will stay together in Canada during the entire procedure because of the in-land sponsorship. This is quite an appealing aspect, especially to those who want to be together under one roof during this whole immigration process.

Potential Challenges That Come Under Inland Sponsorship 

The following are some potential challenges that come under Inland Sponsorship. 

1. Travel Restriction 

Traveling outside of Canada while their application is being processed is typically discouraged for the sponsored spouse or partner. An application may be abandoned if you travel outside of Canada.

2. Long Processing Period

Inland sponsorship has been known to take 12-24 months to process, depending on application volumes and completeness. Work permits may help with expenses, but the lengthy process may be unenduring for some.

3. Little Room for flexibility 

Inland sponsorship is only available if the sponsored partner is already in Canada. This route is not possible for couples living apart unless the partner first obtains a temporary visa to enter the country.

What is Outland Sponsorship? 

Outland spousal sponsorship is usually for those couples whose one spouse or partner lives in a different country. Moreover, it is also suitable when the couple has a family member who sometimes lives here but mostly stays outside of this country while applying for citizenship.

Key Benefits of Outland Sponsorship 

If you are applying for Outland Sponsorship, you can be eligible for the following benefits: 

1. Flexibility of Travel 

Outland sponsorship allows the sponsored partner to travel in and out of Canada without risking the PR application. It, therefore, works very well for those who need to move between countries because of personal or professional obligations.

2. Faster Processing for Certain Regions

The processing time for outland sponsorship applications can vary based on the country of residence. In some cases, however, they might be faster than the timelines for inland sponsorship.

3. Eligibility Irrespective of Location

Outland sponsorship accepts applicants who are living apart, which makes it a flexible process for long-distance relationships.

Potential Challenges That Come Under Outland Sponsorship 

The following are some potential challenges that come under Outland Sponsorship. 

1. Limited Access to Canadian Work or Study Opportunities

Unlike the inland process, outland sponsorship does not offer access to a Spousal Open Work Permit. This means the sponsored individual cannot work in Canada until PR is granted.

2. Separation During Processing

For couples who cannot be granted a visitor visa, outland sponsorship may only mean living apart for as long as the application takes. This can emotionally drain and may delay reunion.

Major Differences between Inland and Outland Sponsorship 

The following information explains the major difference between Inland and Outland Sponsorship. 

Key Takeaways for Selecting the Right Sponsorship Route 

If you are planning to sponsor your spouse for a Canada PR Visa but are confused about the route, you should consider the following takeaways before selecting the sponsorship route. 

1. Relationship Type

Inland sponsorship is suitable for spouses or common-law partners living together in Canada. Outland sponsorship is usually the only choice for conjugal relationships or couples living apart.

2. Residency Flexibility

Inland sponsorship requires that both parties stay in Canada during processing. If travel or living abroad is required, outland sponsorship is more appropriate.

3. Work Opportunities

Both streams permit open work permit applications if the sponsored person is already in Canada with a valid temporary resident status.

4. Appeal Rights

If rejection is an issue, outland sponsorship provides the added benefit of an appeal process. Inland sponsorship does not offer this.

5. Processing Considerations

A couple that wants flexibility in terms of travel and residency at the application can be accepted under outland sponsorship. Couples who already reside in Canada can benefit from steady inland sponsorship. 

Conclusion 

The choice between sponsoring inlands or outlands would depend on where you live, and work, how many upcoming travels you will take, and so on. Discuss the pros and cons of the two options to best decide on an appropriate pathway for your family.

In whatever route is undertaken, the sponsorship programs of the Family of Canada are aimed at bringing loved ones together, hoping and allowing couples to build their future. The reunification of your spouse or partner in Canada can be within reach with proper planning and strict preparation of an application.

For more details about the Canadian Sponsorship Program, contact Province Immigration via +91 98961 96762 or info@provinceimmigration.com