Inland or Outland Sponsorship: Which is Best For Securing Canadian Permanent

Choosing between inland and outland sponsorship in Canada is vital for couples seeking Canadian permanent residency. Both options have distinct advantages and challenges depending on residency status, processing times, and travel restrictions. Understanding the differences between these two pathways is essential to making the right choice for your situation.

We’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of both inland and outland sponsorship in Canada to help you determine the best option for securing Canadian permanent residency for your spouse.

What is the Difference Between Inland And Outland Sponsorship?

Inland and outland sponsorship are two primary pathways for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for Canadian permanent residency. The key differences between these two categories lie in where the application is submitted, whether the sponsored person can travel in and out of Canada during the process, and the ability to appeal a denied application.

Inland sponsorship is generally for couples already residing in Canada, allowing the sponsored partner to stay in the country while the application is processed. On the other hand, Outland sponsorship in Canada typically occurs for couples whose sponsored partner resides outside Canada. It is processed through a visa office in their home country or the nearest visa office handling such applications. Despite the name, outland sponsorship can still be pursued by couples living in Canada if they prefer to have the application processed through an external visa office.

One reason to opt for outland sponsorship in Canada is the potential for faster IRCC processing times, as inland applications may take longer due to the availability of Canadian work permits and other factors. However, one significant benefit of inland sponsorship is that the sponsored spouse may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work while their application is being reviewed. The choice between inland and outland sponsorship in Canada depends on the couple’s circumstances, including their need for work authorization and their ability or desire to travel during the processing period.

While "inland" and "outland" are widely used terms, they are not the official classifications used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Inland sponsorship in Canada falls under the "Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class," while outland sponsorship is categorized under the "Family Class." Applicants must specify which category they are applying under when submitting their document checklist. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in ensuring that the correct application type best supports a couple’s path to Canadian permanent residency.

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Which is the Better Option for Permanently Settling My Spouse in Canada: Inland or Outland Sponsorship?

Not all relationship types qualify for inland and outland sponsorship in Canada, making it essential to determine eligibility before applying. Couples in conjugal relationships must apply under the Family Class (outland sponsorship), as they do not meet the requirements for inland sponsorship in Canada.

Sponsors must provide proof of their intent to return to Canada if their partner is granted Canadian permanent residency in outland sponsorship cases. Another key distinction is that only Canadian citizens can sponsor a spouse from outside the country, while permanent residents must be physically present in Canada to initiate sponsorship.

These restrictions highlight the importance of choosing the appropriate sponsorship route based on immigration status and relationship type. The decision for couples eligible for inland and outland sponsorship in Canada should be based on processing times, travel flexibility, and Canadian work permit availability. Understanding these distinctions ensures couples select the best option for securing Canadian permanent residency.

Categories	Outland Sponsorship	Inland Sponsorship
Application Class	Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class.	Family Class.
Location of Sponsor And Sponsored Person	Both must reside in Canada at the time of application.	Sponsor lives in Canada, sponsored person lives abroad at the time of application.
		Only Canadian citizens may sponsor their loved ones from abroad.
Residency Requirement During Processing	Both must remain in Canada while the application is being processed	Both parties must show willingness to return to Canada once the application is processed.
		If the sponsor is a Canadian permanent resident they must remain in Canada during the application process.
Eligibility of sponsored person for an Open Work Permit (OWP)	Sponsored person may be eligible for an open work permit (OWP) if within Canada.	Sponsored person may be eligible for an open work permit (OWP) if within Canada.
Appeal option if Application is Refused	No appeal option if the application is refused.	If the application is denied, it can be appealed.
Freedom of Movement During Application Processing	Not applicable, as both parties must stay in Canada.	Sponsored person can enter and leave Canada freely while the application is being processed.
		Sponsor may leave Canada if they are a Canadian citizen, provided that they can prove their intention to move back to Canada once their loved one receives PR.
Eligibility for applying while in Canada	Eligible to apply if the sponsored person is living in Canada with valid temporary resident status.	Eligible to apply if the sponsored person is living in Canada with valid temporary resident status.

How Can I Sponsor my Spouse for Permanent Residency in Canada?

Sponsoring your spouse for Canadian permanent residency requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and following a structured application process. As a sponsor, you must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and demonstrate financial ability to support your spouse without social assistance.

Depending on your situation, you can apply through inland sponsorship in Canada for spouses already living in Canada or Outland Sponsorship for those residing abroad. Inland applicants may qualify for an open work permit, allowing them to work while their application is processed. Outland applications, processed through visa offices outside Canada, typically allow for international travel during the process.

Both sponsorship options require submitting proof of a genuine relationship, including marriage certificates, shared financial documents, and communication records. IRCC processing times vary, so a complete and well-documented application is crucial for approval. Consulting an immigration expert can help you navigate the complex sponsorship process effectively.

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FAQs

Do I Need to Travel to Canada With My Spouse For the Interview if We Are Doing Outland Sponsorship?

You do not need to travel to Canada with your spouse for an interview during the outland sponsorship process. If an interview is required, it is typically conducted at a Canadian visa office in the applicant’s home country or the nearest processing center. The sponsor is not required to attend but may do so if invited.

My Spouse Lives in a Country With Long Processing Times. Can I Do Anything to Expedite the Process?

While IRCC processing times vary by country, you can help avoid delays by ensuring that your application is complete and includes all required documents. Providing accurate translations, submitting thorough proof of relationship, and responding promptly to requests from IRCC can speed up the process.

Can I Sponsor My Spouse if We Are in a Common-law Relationship?

Yes, Canada allows sponsorship of a common-law partner if you have lived together continuously for at least 12 months in a marriage-like relationship. You must provide substantial proof of cohabitation, such as shared leases, bills, or financial accounts. Meeting these requirements is crucial for IRCC to recognize your relationship as common law.

Can I Switch From Outland to Inland Sponsorship?

Switching an outland sponsorship application to an inland sponsorship is generally impossible after submission. If your spouse moves to Canada while the application is in process, you may need to withdraw the outland application and reapply under the inland category. However, this can result in additional processing delays, so it is essential to consider the implications before making changes.