Cic cse express entry new spouse

A common topic!

If you're a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and your spouse is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to sponsor your spouse for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Eligibility criteria:

  1. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  2. Your spouse must be at least 18 years old.
  3. Your spouse must be in a legitimate marriage or common-law relationship with you.
  4. Your spouse must meet the language proficiency requirements (CLB 4 in English or French).
  5. Your spouse must meet the education requirements (high school diploma or equivalent).
  6. Your spouse must meet the medical inadmissibility requirements.
  7. You must meet the income requirements (you must have a minimum income threshold, which varies depending on the size of your family).

Step 1: Determine your spouse's eligibility:

  1. Check if your spouse meets the eligibility criteria above.
  2. If your spouse is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may need to apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Step 2: Gather required documents:

  1. Proof of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates of children, joint bank statements, photos).
  2. Proof of your spouse's identity (e.g., passport, national ID card).
  3. Proof of your spouse's language proficiency (e.g., language test results, diplomas).
  4. Proof of your spouse's education (e.g., diplomas, transcripts).
  5. Proof of your income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns).
  6. Proof of your medical insurance (e.g., private insurance, government-provided insurance).

Step 3: Submit an Express Entry profile:

  1. Create an online profile for your spouse through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
  2. Fill out the online application form, including your spouse's information.
  3. Upload the required documents.
  4. Pay the application fee (currently $550 CAD).

Step 4: Submit a sponsorship application:

  1. Once your spouse's profile is submitted, you will receive a notification to submit a sponsorship application.
  2. Fill out the online sponsorship application form.
  3. Upload the required documents (same as Step 2).
  4. Pay the sponsorship fee (currently $1,050 CAD).

Step 5: Wait for processing:

  1. IRCC will review your application and your spouse's profile.
  2. If your application is complete and meets the eligibility criteria, it will be processed.
  3. You will receive a notification if your application is approved or refused.

Step 6: Attend an interview (if required):

  1. In some cases, IRCC may request an interview to verify the information provided in your application.
  2. You and your spouse will need to attend the interview at a designated location.

Step 7: Receive a decision:

  1. If your application is approved, your spouse will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa.
  2. Your spouse can then enter Canada and become a permanent resident.

Additional tips:

  1. Make sure you and your spouse meet the eligibility criteria and gather all required documents before submitting your application.
  2. Be prepared for a lengthy processing time (typically 12-18 months).
  3. Keep your contact information up to date with IRCC to ensure you receive notifications about your application.
  4. Consider hiring a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer to help with the application process.

Remember, the Express Entry system is a complex process, and it's essential to ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria and follow the correct steps to avoid delays or refusals.