Sponsoring a loved one to live with you in Canada can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Among the various sponsorship categories offered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the conjugal partner sponsorship is designed for couples who are in a committed relationship but cannot live together due to significant barriers. But how long does it take to process a conjugal partner sponsorship application? Let’s explore this in detail, from processing times to the steps involved and what applicants should expect along the way.
Introduction to Conjugal Partner Sponsorship
A conjugal relationship is defined by Immigration Canada as a marriage-like commitment between two people who are unable to live together due to reasons beyond their control. This could be due to immigration restrictions, legal or social barriers in their home country, or other valid circumstances.
Unlike spousal or common-law sponsorships, conjugal sponsorships apply when a couple cannot cohabit for a year or get married, but still maintain a genuine, long-term relationship with shared responsibilities and emotional ties.
Where is Conjugal Partner Sponsorship Processed?
Conjugal partner sponsorship applications are processed through the Family Class (outland) sponsorship stream. This means that the partner being sponsored lives outside of Canada at the time of application. The entire process is handled by IRCC and is usually processed through the visa office that handles applications for the applicant’s country of residence.
It’s important to note that you cannot sponsor a conjugal partner from inside Canada, unlike spousal sponsorships that allow for inland applications.
Advantages of Conjugal Partner Sponsorship
While conjugal partner sponsorship may be less common than spousal or common-law sponsorship, it offers several advantages for those in unique situations:
- Legal Pathway for Non-Co-Habiting Couples
For couples who face legal, social, or immigration barriers that prevent marriage or living together, conjugal sponsorship offers a legal solution.
- Permanent Residency
Once approved, the sponsored partner receives Canadian permanent residency, allowing them to live, work, and study in Canada.
- Family Reunification
This program ensures that committed partners can be together despite challenges that prevent cohabitation or marriage.
Steps in the Conjugal Partner Sponsorship Process
The conjugal sponsorship application is a complex and document-heavy process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
- Determine Eligibility
- The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- The sponsor must be 18 years or older and not receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability.
- The sponsor should not have sponsored someone else in the past five years (if applicable).
- The applicant must prove a genuine conjugal relationship of at least one year.
- Gather Documents
Supporting evidence is crucial in proving the authenticity of the relationship. This may include:
- Letters, emails, chats
- Photos together
- Joint financial documents
- Affidavits from friends and family
- Explanation of barriers preventing marriage or cohabitation
- Submit Application Package
The application package includes:
- Sponsorship forms
- Relationship questionnaire
- Identity and civil documents
- Police certificates
- Medical exams
- Processing by IRCC
IRCC will review the application for completeness, conduct background checks, and evaluate the validity of the relationship.
- Interview (if required)
Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview at the visa office to further assess the relationship.
- Decision and PR Confirmation
Once approved, the sponsored partner receives a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can travel to Canada.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Conjugal Partner Sponsorship Application?
As of recent updates from IRCC, the processing time for a conjugal partner sponsorship application is typically 12 to 24 months. However, several factors can affect this timeline:
- Completeness of Application
Incomplete or inaccurate applications can result in delays or outright refusals.
- Country of Residence
Applications processed through countries with high application volumes or security concerns may take longer.
- Background Checks
Security clearances, medical exams, and criminal record checks can lengthen the process.
- Interview Requirements
If an interview is requested, scheduling and conducting it may add extra months to the timeline.
- COVID-19 and Backlogs
The pandemic and global events have created processing backlogs in recent years. IRCC continues to address these delays, but some variation still exists.
Types of Partner Sponsorship: A Quick Overview
It’s helpful to understand the difference between the three main types of partner sponsorship under Canada’s Family Class immigration:
| Type | Key Requirement | Living Together Requirement |
| Spousal Sponsorship | Legal marriage | Not required |
| Common-Law Sponsorship | 12 months of continuous cohabitation | Required |
| Conjugal Sponsorship | 12 months of relationship without cohabitation | Not allowed to live together due to barriers |
Conjugal sponsorship is considered a last resort option and is usually scrutinized more closely, so the documentation needs to be very strong.
Conclusion
Processing a conjugal partner sponsorship application is a complex but rewarding journey. The typical timeline ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on multiple variables including documentation, country of application, and background checks. Despite the challenges, this pathway provides a valuable opportunity for couples in a genuine conjugal relationship to reunite in Canada.
If you’re planning to sponsor your conjugal partner, make sure to gather strong evidence, follow instructions closely, and consider seeking guidance from an immigration consultant or lawyer to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What qualifies as a conjugal relationship in Canada?
A conjugal relationship is a committed, marriage-like partnership where two people cannot live together or get married due to significant barriers. The relationship must be at least 12 months long and involve emotional, financial, and physical ties.
Q2: Can I sponsor my partner from within Canada under conjugal sponsorship?
No. Conjugal sponsorship is considered an “outland” application, meaning your partner must reside outside Canada during the process.
Q3: What is the biggest reason conjugal sponsorships are refused?
The most common reason for refusal is insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship or failure to clearly explain the barriers to cohabitation or marriage.
Q4: Can same-sex couples apply under conjugal sponsorship?
Yes. Canada recognizes same-sex relationships, and they are eligible under conjugal sponsorship if all other requirements are met.
Q5: How can I speed up my conjugal partner sponsorship application?
There’s no official way to fast-track conjugal sponsorship applications, but ensuring the application is complete, clear, and well-documented can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Q6: What if my conjugal partner has children?
You can include dependent children in the application. IRCC will evaluate their eligibility and process their documents alongside the main application.
