Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner to Canada within the province of Quebec involves unique regulations and procedures different from other provinces. Quebec’s immigration system emphasizes preserving its Francophone heritage while embracing diversity, with a strong focus on family reunification.

Step-by-Step Guide to Spousal Sponsorship in Quebec

1. Quebec Eligibility Requirements

Sponsor Requirements:

• Citizenship or Residency: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Temporary residents (e.g., student or work visa holders) cannot sponsor.
• Residency in Quebec: Must reside in Quebec at the time of application submission. Proof of residency may be required (e.g., Quebec driver’s license, utility bills).
• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Financial Capability: Must demonstrate financial ability to support the sponsored spouse or common-law partner, including meeting minimum income requirements set by Quebec.
• Criminal Record: Must provide a clear criminal record check.
• Previous Sponsorship: Must not be in default of any previous sponsorship undertakings.

Sponsored Spouse or Common-law Partner Requirements:

• Wife or Husband:
  • Can be of the same or different sex.
  • Cannot be considered a spouse if either party was married to another person at the time of their marriage.
  • Must not have lived apart for over a year while in a relationship with another person.
• De Facto Spouse:
  • Can be of the same or different sex.
  • Must have lived in union for at least one year or be in a relationship but unable to cohabit due to persecution or penal control.
• Conjugal Partner:
  • Can be of the same or different sex.
  • Must have maintained a union for at least one year and live outside Canada.

Both sponsor and sponsored person must prove the genuineness of their relationship.

Language Requirement:

• No mandatory language preference for spousal sponsorship.
• Knowledge of French can benefit integration and employment opportunities in Quebec.

Financial Requirement:

• No specific minimum income requirement, but sponsors must commit to financially supporting the sponsored spouse or partner for a designated period (three years).

2. Gather the Required Documents

Documents for Spousal Sponsorship in Quebec:

• Undertaking Application: Binding contract between the sponsor and the sponsored individual.
• Authorization for Collection and Communication of Personal Information.
• Permanent Selection Application – Family Class.
• Evaluation of Financial Capacity.
• Declaration of the Guarantor Abroad.

3. Fees for Quebec Spousal Sponsorship Applications

As of January 1, 2024:

• Sponsorship of a person: $319
• Each additional person sponsored: $128

Fees must be paid in full and in Canadian funds. Accepted payment methods include credit card, postal money order, bank draft, certified cheque, and cheques issued by a foreign exchange dealer. Personal cheques, traveller’s cheques, and cash are not accepted.

4. Wait for Processing

Processing Time:

• Generally ranges from several months to two years, depending on application completeness, volume, and any additional processing requirements.

What to Do While Waiting:

• Familiarize yourself with Quebec’s culture, language, and community resources to facilitate integration upon arrival.

5. Receive Decision

Approval:

• If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
• Complete the landing process upon arrival in Quebec to become a permanent resident.

Integration:

• Embrace Quebec’s culture, language, and community resources.
• Engage in language learning, social networking, and cultural immersion to aid successful settlement.

By following these steps and ensuring all requirements are met, you can navigate the Quebec spousal sponsorship process smoothly and look forward to reuniting with your spouse or partner in Quebec.