How to Sponsor a Spouse in Vaughan: A Vaughan Spouse Sponsorship Lawyer's Guide
- Ahsan Chaudhry
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Are you looking to sponsor your spouse in Vaughan? This Vaughan spouse sponsorship lawyer guide walks you through eligibility, documents, timelines, forms, and local legal insights to help you succeed.
Who is Eligible to Sponsor in Vaughan?
To sponsor a spouse in Vaughan, you must:
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old.
Currently live in Vaughan or elsewhere in Ontario (if you're a permanent resident).
Demonstrate financial stability and not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability.
Not be under a removal order, bankrupt, or currently sponsoring someone else.
Types of Sponsorship in Vaughan
There are two main types of sponsorship in Vaughan:
Inland sponsorship is for when your spouse is already in Canada, such as on a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit. Inland applicants can also apply for an Open Work Permit while their application is being processed.
Outland sponsorship is for when your spouse lives outside of Canada. This route allows them to travel freely during processing and provides the option to appeal a refusal.
Required Documents – What You Need in Vaughan
To complete a spouse sponsorship application, you will need several key documents:
Sponsor's forms: IMM 1344 (Application to Sponsor) and other Family Class forms.
Applicant's forms: IMM 0008, IMM 5688, and forms proving the relationship.
Proof of identity: Passports, birth certificates, and relationship photos.
Legal status documents: Required if your spouse is already living in Canada.
Marriage certificate or proof of a common-law relationship.
Proof of cohabitation: Joint leases, utility bills, and photos taken together.
Relationship evidence: Emails, travel itineraries, and sworn affidavits.
Financial documentation: Pay stubs, CRA Notices of Assessment, and bank statements.
Medical exams and police clearance certificates for the applicant.
Sponsor undertaking: Promise to support your spouse for three years after they become a permanent resident.
How to Apply in Vaughan
Start by downloading the IMM 5289 Guide and ensure that you're using the online application system. Complete all the required forms and organize your documents clearly. You will need to pay fees totaling around $1,290, which covers the sponsorship, permanent residence processing, biometrics, and more. Once you have everything ready, submit your application through the IRCC secure portal, making sure to follow the checklist.
After submission:
Inland applicants may be asked to provide biometrics and can apply for an Open Work Permit.
Outland applicants will receive a file number and instructions for visa processing.
Processing Times in Vaughan
As of early 2025, inland sponsorship applications take approximately 28 months, while outland sponsorship applications take around 10 months. These timelines can change depending on application volumes and whether your documents are complete and correct. It is important to avoid delays by ensuring your application is accurate from the start.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are several mistakes that applicants commonly make:
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation. Always double-check your forms and ensure all necessary documents are included.
Providing weak evidence of a genuine relationship. Use a variety of proof, such as photos, communication records, and joint financial accounts.
Failing to report changes in circumstances, like moving within Vaughan or Ontario.
Attempting the process without legal help, which can lead to avoidable issues.
Having a Vaughan immigration lawyer review your application can prevent costly errors.
Why Hire a Vaughan Immigration Lawyer
Hiring a local lawyer can make a significant difference in your sponsorship journey. A Vaughan immigration lawyer can:
Offer personalized advice on whether inland or outland sponsorship is right for your situation.
Review your documents thoroughly to catch any mistakes before submission.
Guide you in collecting strong relationship evidence.
Handle legal issues such as past criminal records, prior sponsorships, or immigration complications.
Represent you in appeals or resubmissions if your application is refused.
Post-Approval Steps in Vaughan
Once your application is approved, your spouse will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if needed, a Permanent Resident visa. As the sponsor, you are financially responsible for your spouse's basic needs for three years after they receive permanent residency. Your spouse can now settle in Vaughan, access healthcare, find work, and eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.
Vaughan-Specific Tips for Success
To strengthen your application:
Use your Vaughan address consistently on leases, utility bills, and bank statements.
Submit clear scans or notarized copies of international documents.
Include affidavits from Vaughan friends, family, or community leaders to support your relationship.
Work with a local lawyer who understands IRCC processing trends in Vaughan and the Greater Toronto Area.
Book a Consultation with Brace Law
Sponsoring a spouse in Vaughan is both a personal and legal journey. By understanding eligibility, gathering the right documents, and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your chances of success. Working with a Vaughan spouse sponsorship lawyer adds another layer of confidence to your application.
Brace Law’s Vaughan immigration lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a consultation. With the right legal guidance, you can bring your spouse home and begin the next chapter of your life together.
You can schedule a consultation at one of our offices or meet with us remotely if that works better for you.
📍 Our Oakville Law Office (Main Office): 2939 Portland Dr Unit 202, Oakville, ON L6H 5S4
📍 Our Vaughan Law Office: 3883 Highway 7 Road, Unit 220, Vaughan, ON L4L 6B9
📍 Our Hamilton Law Office: 96 King Street West, Dundas, Hamilton, ON, L9H 2V6
📧 Email: staff@bracelaw.ca
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Legal policies and regulations change frequently, and every case is unique. For personalized legal guidance tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified lawyer.
