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- [Skip to main content](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#wb-cont) - [Skip to "About government"](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#wb-info) ## Language selection - [Français fr](https://ircc.canada.ca/francais/information/demandes/conjoint.asp) [ / Gouvernement du Canada](https://www.canada.ca/en.html) ## Search ## Menu Main Menu - [Jobs and the workplace](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs.html) - [Immigration and citizenship](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) - [Travel and tourism](https://travel.gc.ca/) - [Business and industry](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/business.html) - [Benefits](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits.html) - [Health](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health.html) - [Taxes](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes.html) - [Environment and natural resources](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment.html) - [National security and defence](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence.html) - [Culture, history and sport](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/culture.html) - [Policing, justice and emergencies](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing.html) - [Transport and infrastructure](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/transport.html) - [Canada and the world](https://international.gc.ca/world-monde/index.aspx?lang=eng) - [Money and finances](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/finance.html) - [Science and innovation](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/science.html) ## You are here: 1. [Canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en.html) 2. [Immigration and citizenship](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) 3. [Application forms and guides](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides.html) # Sponsoring your spouse, partner or dependent child  Get help to [open an application form](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=660&top=18) or [to fill one out](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/results-by-topic.asp?st=4.2) in the [Help Centre](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/index-featured-can.asp#tab1). ## Get ready to apply We won’t ask you for original supporting documents anymore. We now accept copies. You should still have your originals in case we ask you for them during processing. ### You must now apply online As of September 23, 2022, you must now apply online for this program. If you can’t apply online, and require accommodations, including for a disability, you can ask for the application in [another format](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/how-to-apply-online.html#alternative) (paper, braille or large print). The [Complete Guide (IMM 5289)](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-5289-sponsor-your-spouse-common-law-partner-conjugal-partner-dependent-child-complete-guide.html) has important information about: - eligibility - fees - how to apply - how to avoid common mistakes - how to fill out the forms - other more detailed information **If you’re sponsoring your adopted child or a child you will adopt in Canada**, use the [application kit to sponsor adopted children](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/sponsor-member-family-class.html) and other relatives instead. ## Get your checklist, forms and instructions ### Requirements – #### Checklist #### The sponsor must - download and complete these PDF forms - digitally sign, along with the person you’re sponsoring (principal applicant) #### The person being sponsored (principal applicant) will - upload them to their online application - electronically sign for the entire application, including for those of any other family members #### The principal applicant must fill out these digital forms online: - Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) - Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669) – You must fill out this form for yourself, and on behalf of any family members who are 18 or older. - Additional Family Information (IMM 5406) - Supplementary Information – Your Travels (IMM 5562), if it applies #### Country specific requirements ##### \- Additional forms for residents ##### – Instruction(s) for documents ##### – Instruction(s) for documents ##### – Instruction(s) for documents ##### – Instruction(s) for documents ## You need to give your biometrics In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply. Find out [who needs to give biometrics](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp) and how the [new application process](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#biometric-process-pr) works. ## Biometrics and the application process  We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process. ## 1\. Apply for permanent residence If you want to apply for permanent residence in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application. Avoid processing delays by sending us a [complete application](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=072&top=3). ## 2\. Get your fingerprints and photo taken If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) for every application for permanent residence you submit. Even if you gave your biometrics in the past and they’re still valid. - You must pay the [biometrics fee](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#biometric-fee) **when you submit your application.** Otherwise you may experience delays. - Get this done **as soon as you get the letter** from us that tells you to give biometrics. - You have **30 days** to do this from the date on the letter. Find out [who needs to give](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp), [how to give](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/how-to-give-biometrics.html), and [where to give your biometrics](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html). **COVID-19: Biometrics deadline** Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. [Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/biometrics.html). ## 3\. We process your application After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See [how long it takes to process your application.](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/index.asp) If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you. ## 4\. We make a decision on your application When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents. If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why. ## 5\. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved) Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes documents like your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), permanent resident visa (if you’re from a country that needs a visa), or eTA (electronically linked to your passport) if you’re from a visa-exempt country or your single entry journey document if you don’t have a travel document. Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada. Make sure **children under 18** travel with the [right documents](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/minor-children-travelling-canada.html). ## 6\. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this. If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians. If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from. ## 7\. You’re allowed to enter Canada If you pass the identity check and meet the [entry requirements](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#basic-requirements), the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months. **Children under 18** must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show [other documents](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/minor-children-travelling-canada.html) depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone. ## Basic entry requirements You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must: - have a valid travel document, like a passport - be in good health - have no criminal or immigration-related convictions - convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country - convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit - have enough money for your stay - The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives. Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in: - criminal activity - human rights violations - organized crime You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons. [Find out more about inadmissibility](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/inadmissibility.html). ## Biometrics fee - **Individual** applicant: CAD \$85 - **Families applying at the same time**: maximum total fee of CAD \$170 - **Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff** who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of \$CAD 255 ## Help – Choosing the country the person being sponsored resides in This is the country the person is currently living in. It may be different from the country or countries they are citizens of. If the person being sponsored lives in Canada, select Canada. ## Help – Submit your documents Refer to your checklist to find out which documents you need to submit. Choose the country you will get these documents from. If you will submit documents from several different countries, select "Add another country." If you will need documents from more than three countries, please start the tool again. ### Photo specifications You need one photo for each person on your application. Follow the instructions in the online application to scan and upload **both sides** of your photo. ## Using an immigration representative If you’re a representative, [find out how you can create an account and submit applications on behalf of your clients](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigration-citizenship-representative/pr-representatives-online.html). If you want to appoint someone to do business with us on your behalf, you must - download a [Use of a Representative \[IMM 5476\] (PDF, 1.48 MB)](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/pdf/kits/forms/imm5476e.pdf) or [Authority to release personal information to a designated individual form \[IMM 5475\] (PDF, 2.2 MB)](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/documents/pdf/english/kits/forms/imm5475/01-05-2021/imm5475e.pdf) – which ever applies - complete it - sign it (digitally or by hand) and get your immigration representative to do so also - upload it with your application An immigration representative (an immigration consultant or lawyer) can give you advice and help you with your application for a fee. But they can’t - open a portal account on your behalf - electronically sign the application for you - sign into the portal using your username and password A representative can fill out forms and communicate with us on your behalf through their own account. They can also - help you prepare the documents you need to upload - answer questions about the forms After you read the declaration, **you must be the one who types your name**. This is the legal requirement for your application to be considered “signed,” according to Canada’s immigration law. ## Details for the person being sponsored Sign in or create a [Permanent residence online application portal account](https://prson-srpel.apps.cic.gc.ca/en/login). ### Get your fingerprints and photo taken If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you may need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics). [Find out if you need to give your biometrics](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp) - You must pay the [biometric fee](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#biometric-fee) **when you submit your application.** Otherwise you may experience delays. - Get this done **as soon as you get the letter** from us that tells you to give biometrics. - You have **30 days** to do this from the date on the letter. ## **Temporary changes to biometrics** Book your biometric appointment as soon as you can to avoid processing delays. If you can’t book an appointment by the deadline on your biometric instruction letter, [there may be temporary measures in place to help you](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/temporary-measures.html). ### Technical issues If you’re having technical issues applying, [contact us using the web form (opens in a new tab)](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/ClientContact/en/Technical). 1. Select your problem. 2. Under **Tell us about yourself**: - If you **don’t have a unique client identifier number**, enter 1111111111. - If you haven’t submitted an application yet, and **don’t have an application number**, enter 0000000. 3. Under **Tell us about your technical issue**: - Specify the **program you’re trying to apply under**. - Explain any problems that you’re having. - Upload screenshots from your account that show us both - the page and fields where you’re having problems, and - any error messages you’re getting. If you need to upload a number of images, find out [how to combine them into 1 document](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1160&top=23). ## Pay your fees online Find out [how to pay your fees](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/fees/index.asp). ## Working in Canada If you already have a work permit, you can keep working as long as the permit is valid. If you’re living in Canada with the person sponsoring you, you can also apply for [an open work permit](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1163&top=17) when you apply for permanent residence. Find out more about [how to apply for an open work permit online](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/apply.html). ## Submit your online application Before you submit your application, make sure you: - answer all questions - electronically sign your application (type your full name exactly as shown on your passport) - include your processing fee receipt - upload all the supporting documents If your application is incomplete, we’ll reject it. You’ll have to fix any errors and then re-submit it. ## Get updates about your application online If you and the person you are sponsoring meet the eligibility requirements, we will mail or email you a request to link your application to an online account. Find out [how to link your application](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account/link-paper-online.html) to your account after you [create an account or sign in](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html).  Having trouble? See the [top questions about linking your application](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/results-by-topic.asp?st=23.4) in the Help Centre. ## Features ### Need Help?  [Need Help? Find answers in the Help Centre](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/index.asp) ### How-to video  [Save Time: Send a Complete Application](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/video/save-time-send-complete-application.html) Date modified: 2025-11-25 ## About this site ### Immigration and citizenship - [Help Centre](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/results-by-topic.asp?top=14) - [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/contact-ircc.html) ### Government of Canada - [All contacts](https://www.canada.ca/en/contact.html) - [Departments and agencies](https://www.canada.ca/en/government/dept.html) - [About government](https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system.html) #### Themes and topics - [Jobs](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs.html) - [Immigration and citizenship](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) - [Travel and tourism](https://travel.gc.ca/) - [Business](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/business.html) - [Benefits](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits.html) - [Health](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health.html) - [Taxes](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes.html) - [Environment and natural resources](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment.html) - [National security and defence](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence.html) - [Culture, history and sport](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/culture.html) - [Policing, justice and emergencies](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing.html) - [Transport and infrastructure](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/transport.html) - [Canada and the world](https://international.gc.ca/world-monde/index.aspx?lang=eng) - [Money and finance](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/finance.html) - [Science and innovation](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/science.html) - [Indigenous peoples](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/indigenous-peoples.html) - [Veterans and military](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/veterans-military.html) - [Youth](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/youth.html) ### Government of Canada Corporate - [Social media](https://www.canada.ca/en/social.html) - [Mobile applications](https://www.canada.ca/en/mobile.html) - [About Canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/government/about-canada-ca.html) - [Terms and conditions](https://www.canada.ca/en/transparency/terms.html) - [Privacy](https://www.canada.ca/en/transparency/privacy.html) 

## Get ready to apply We won’t ask you for original supporting documents anymore. We now accept copies. You should still have your originals in case we ask you for them during processing. ### You must now apply online As of September 23, 2022, you must now apply online for this program. If you can’t apply online, and require accommodations, including for a disability, you can ask for the application in [another format](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/how-to-apply-online.html#alternative) (paper, braille or large print). The [Complete Guide (IMM 5289)](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-5289-sponsor-your-spouse-common-law-partner-conjugal-partner-dependent-child-complete-guide.html) has important information about: - eligibility - fees - how to apply - how to avoid common mistakes - how to fill out the forms - other more detailed information **If you’re sponsoring your adopted child or a child you will adopt in Canada**, use the [application kit to sponsor adopted children](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/sponsor-member-family-class.html) and other relatives instead. ## Get your checklist, forms and instructions This is the country the person is currently living in. It may be different from the country or countries they are citizens of. If the person being sponsored lives in Canada, select Canada. Refer to your checklist to find out which documents you need to submit. Choose the country you will get these documents from. If you will submit documents from several different countries, select "Add another country." If you will need documents from more than three countries, please start the tool again. ### Photo specifications You need one photo for each person on your application. Follow the instructions in the online application to scan and upload **both sides** of your photo. ## Using an immigration representative If you’re a representative, [find out how you can create an account and submit applications on behalf of your clients](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigration-citizenship-representative/pr-representatives-online.html). If you want to appoint someone to do business with us on your behalf, you must - download a [Use of a Representative \[IMM 5476\] (PDF, 1.48 MB)](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/pdf/kits/forms/imm5476e.pdf) or [Authority to release personal information to a designated individual form \[IMM 5475\] (PDF, 2.2 MB)](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/documents/pdf/english/kits/forms/imm5475/01-05-2021/imm5475e.pdf) – which ever applies - complete it - sign it (digitally or by hand) and get your immigration representative to do so also - upload it with your application An immigration representative (an immigration consultant or lawyer) can give you advice and help you with your application for a fee. But they can’t - open a portal account on your behalf - electronically sign the application for you - sign into the portal using your username and password A representative can fill out forms and communicate with us on your behalf through their own account. They can also - help you prepare the documents you need to upload - answer questions about the forms After you read the declaration, **you must be the one who types your name**. This is the legal requirement for your application to be considered “signed,” according to Canada’s immigration law. ## Details for the person being sponsored Sign in or create a [Permanent residence online application portal account](https://prson-srpel.apps.cic.gc.ca/en/login). ### Get your fingerprints and photo taken If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you may need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics). [Find out if you need to give your biometrics](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp) - You must pay the [biometric fee](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/applications/spouse.asp#biometric-fee) **when you submit your application.** Otherwise you may experience delays. - Get this done **as soon as you get the letter** from us that tells you to give biometrics. - You have **30 days** to do this from the date on the letter. ### Technical issues If you’re having technical issues applying, [contact us using the web form (opens in a new tab)](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/ClientContact/en/Technical). 1. Select your problem. 2. Under **Tell us about yourself**: - If you **don’t have a unique client identifier number**, enter 1111111111. - If you haven’t submitted an application yet, and **don’t have an application number**, enter 0000000. 3. Under **Tell us about your technical issue**: - Specify the **program you’re trying to apply under**. - Explain any problems that you’re having. - Upload screenshots from your account that show us both - the page and fields where you’re having problems, and - any error messages you’re getting. If you need to upload a number of images, find out [how to combine them into 1 document](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1160&top=23). ## Pay your fees online Find out [how to pay your fees](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/information/fees/index.asp). ## Working in Canada If you already have a work permit, you can keep working as long as the permit is valid. If you’re living in Canada with the person sponsoring you, you can also apply for [an open work permit](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1163&top=17) when you apply for permanent residence. Find out more about [how to apply for an open work permit online](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/apply.html). ## Submit your online application Before you submit your application, make sure you: - answer all questions - electronically sign your application (type your full name exactly as shown on your passport) - include your processing fee receipt - upload all the supporting documents If your application is incomplete, we’ll reject it. You’ll have to fix any errors and then re-submit it. ## Get updates about your application online If you and the person you are sponsoring meet the eligibility requirements, we will mail or email you a request to link your application to an online account. Find out [how to link your application](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account/link-paper-online.html) to your account after you [create an account or sign in](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html).  Having trouble? See the [top questions about linking your application](https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/results-by-topic.asp?st=23.4) in the Help Centre. Date modified: 2025-11-25