Most common
Spousal & Partner Sponsorship
Inland (with Spousal Open Work Permit) or outland processing for spouses, common-law, and conjugal partners. Includes same-sex couples.
Family Class
Family Sponsorship
Reunite Canadian citizens and permanent residents with their spouses, partners, parents, grandparents, and dependent children.
How reunification works at Sherway
Canadian Sponsor
Verified Eligibility
APPROVED
Family Reunited in Canada
PR Status Granted
Overseas Family Member
Application Assembled
Types of family sponsorship
Intake paused
Parents & Grandparents (PGP)
IRCC paused new PGP intake indefinitely in July 2026 — no interest-to-sponsor form is currently open. Existing applications are still being processed; the Super Visa remains open now as the live long-term alternative.
Dependents
Dependent Children
Sponsorship of biological or adopted children under 22, including overage dependents with qualifying conditions.
Limited cases
Other Relatives
Orphaned siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren under 18 — and the 'lonely Canadian' provision in rare cases.
Sponsor eligibility requirements
- Canadian citizen or permanent resident, 18 years or older
- Not on social assistance (except for disability)
- Meet Minimum Necessary Income (PGP) or no income requirement (spousal)
- No prior sponsorship breach undertakings
- Sign a sponsorship undertaking (3-20 years depending on category)
- Genuine and continuing relationship with the sponsored person
Frequently asked questions
Who can sponsor a family member to immigrate to Canada?
A sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, 18 years or older, not on social assistance (except for disability), and must sign a sponsorship undertaking. A genuine and continuing relationship with the sponsored person is required.
Is the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) still open?
IRCC paused new PGP intake indefinitely in July 2026 — no interest-to-sponsor form is currently open. Existing applications already in the system are still being processed, and the Super Visa remains open now as the live long-term alternative.
What's the difference between inland and outland spousal sponsorship?
Inland processing keeps the sponsored spouse or partner in Canada, typically with a Spousal Open Work Permit while the application is decided. Outland processing applies while the sponsored person is outside Canada. Both routes cover spouses, common-law, and conjugal partners, including same-sex couples.
How long does a sponsorship undertaking last?
The undertaking runs 3-20 years depending on the category of family member being sponsored.
Can I sponsor an adult child who is still financially dependent?
Dependent children — biological or adopted — are generally sponsorable under 22. Overage dependents can still qualify where they meet specific qualifying conditions.
Ready to take the next step?
Speak with a licensed consultant about your specific situation.