Inland process
An in-Canada sponsorship process is generally intended for eligible spouses or partners living together in Canada. Temporary status and the practical ability to remain in Canada can matter.
Requirements
Inland vs Outland
This detailed guide explains the key considerations, documentation and planning issues related to inland vs outland. Family sponsorship applications should be complete, truthful, internally consistent and based on the current rules for the exact category.
01
Inland process
An in-Canada sponsorship process is generally intended for eligible spouses or partners living together in Canada. Temporary status and the practical ability to remain in Canada can matter....
02
Outland process
An overseas family-class process is generally used when the sponsored spouse or partner is outside Canada, subject to the applicable rules and circumstances....
03
Travel considerations
Travel during processing can affect practical plans and, depending on circumstances, the ability to return to Canada. Temporary status and travel documents should be checked before leaving....
Detailed information
Understanding inland vs outland in Canada
Outland process
An overseas family-class process is generally used when the sponsored spouse or partner is outside Canada, subject to the applicable rules and circumstances.
Travel considerations
Travel during processing can affect practical plans and, depending on circumstances, the ability to return to Canada. Temporary status and travel documents should be checked before leaving.
Work authorization
Depending on eligibility and current rules, an in-Canada spouse or partner may have an option to obtain work authorization while the application is processed. Current conditions should be verified.
Processing comparison
Neither process should be assumed to be faster for every case. Published estimates change and individual files can take different amounts of time.
Choosing a strategy
Compare location, status, travel needs, work authorization, evidence and family circumstances. Complex cases may benefit from an individualized review.
Important: This is general educational information.
Immigration requirements, forms, fees, program availability and processing information can
change.
Key considerations
What should you review?
- Inland process
- Outland process
- Travel considerations
- Work authorization
- Processing comparison
- Choosing a strategy
Preparation
Practical preparation checklist
1
Confirm the exact sponsorship category and current eligibility rules.
Keep supporting records organized and consistent with the information in the application.
2
Collect identity, civil-status, relationship, financial and supporting documents.
Keep supporting records organized and consistent with the information in the application.
3
Check every name, date, address and immigration-history detail for consistency.
Keep supporting records organized and consistent with the information in the application.
4
Prepare clear explanations for unusual circumstances or missing evidence where relevant.
Keep supporting records organized and consistent with the information in the application.
5
Keep a complete copy and monitor official requests and application updates.
Keep supporting records organized and consistent with the information in the application.
Requirements
Prepare your family sponsorship strategy carefully
A strong application should be complete, truthful, logically organized and supported by documents that match the forms.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
No. The sponsor and applicant must satisfy the
applicable eligibility and admissibility requirements and the application must be approved.
No. Sponsorship is limited to relationships and
circumstances defined by Canadian immigration rules.
Yes. Published estimates can change with application
volumes, staffing, screening and other factors.
Related resources