How to Sponsor Your Spouse or Partner for PR in Canada

Bringing your loved one to Canada to start a new life together can feel like navigating a labyrinth blindfolded. The sheer volume of paperwork, the seemingly endless waiting periods, and the fear of making a single mistake can be incredibly daunting, turning what should be a joyful prospect into a stressful ordeal. This guide is here to walk you through every step of sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner for Permanent Residence (PR) in Canada, demystifying the process and offering practical, empathetic advice from someone who's been there.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Basics of Spousal and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship

When you decide to sponsor your partner to Canada, you're not just filling out forms; you're embarking on a deeply personal journey with significant legal and financial responsibilities. It's crucial to understand the fundamental definitions and pathways available to ensure you choose the right route for your unique situation.

Who Qualifies as a "Spouse" or "Common-Law Partner" for Canadian Immigration?

The Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has very specific definitions for who can be sponsored under the family class. It's not just about love; it's about meeting strict legal criteria.

First, let's talk about spouses. For IRCC purposes, a spouse is someone you are legally married to. This marriage must be recognized both by the laws of the country where it took place and by Canadian law. If you got married abroad, you'll need to ensure that Canada recognizes that type of union. For example, some marriages that might be legal elsewhere, like polygamous marriages, are not recognized in Canada, and therefore, you wouldn't be able to sponsor additional spouses beyond the first one. This legal recognition is the cornerstone of a spousal application. You'll need your marriage certificate as primary proof, but IRCC will dig deeper to confirm the genuineness of the relationship, as we'll discuss later.

Next, we have common-law partners. This category is incredibly common for expats who've been living together without the formality of marriage. To qualify as common-law partners, you and your partner must have cohabited (lived together in a conjugal relationship) for at least 12 continuous months. Think of it like this: you've been living together, sharing a home, finances, and life as if you were married, for a full year without any significant breaks. Proof of this cohabitation is paramount. This can include shared utility bills, joint bank accounts, lease agreements with both names, and official mail sent to the same address. Any period where you were physically separated for a long time, except for short absences for work or family visits, might break the "continuous" aspect, so be meticulous with your timeline and evidence.

Finally, there's the conjugal partner category, which is far less common and usually reserved for exceptional circumstances. This is for partners who are in a genuine conjugal relationship but cannot live together or get married due to significant, insurmountable reasons outside their control. These reasons often stem from immigration barriers, legal issues in their home country (e.g., same-sex marriage not recognized), or other severe obstacles. For instance, if your partner lives in a country where you, as a Canadian, cannot legally enter, or if their government prohibits them from leaving to marry you, this might be a situation for a conjugal partnership. It's not simply for couples who prefer not to marry or live together; there must be a compelling reason that makes marriage or cohabitation impossible. Proving a conjugal relationship requires extensive documentation and a detailed explanation of the barriers you face.

The Different Sponsorship Streams: Inland vs. Outland

Choosing between inland and outland sponsorship is one of the first big decisions you'll make, and it depends heavily on your partner's current location and immigration status. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and understanding them is key to a smooth process.

Outland sponsorship is generally for partners who live outside Canada. However, a partner who is visiting Canada can also apply via the outland stream. The application is processed by the visa office responsible for your partner's country of residence, regardless of where the sponsor lives. One of the significant advantages of the outland stream is that if your application is refused, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD). This offers a safety net that the inland stream typically doesn't. Furthermore, processing times for outland applications can sometimes be faster, depending on the specific visa office and country. However, if your partner is outside Canada, they must remain there until their application is approved. This can mean long periods of separation, which is often the hardest part of the immigration journey.

Inland sponsorship, on the other hand, is specifically for partners who are already residing in Canada with valid temporary resident status (e.g., on a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit). A major benefit of this stream is that your partner can often apply for an open work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed. This means they can work for almost any employer in Canada, which can significantly ease financial burdens and help them integrate into Canadian society much sooner. However, a drawback is that if the inland application is refused, there's typically no right to appeal to the IAD, making the initial application accuracy even more critical. Additionally, while their application is in process, your partner generally shouldn't leave Canada, as re-entry might be denied without PR status, potentially jeopardizing the application. It’s a bit of a gamble, though many people do successfully re-enter, but IRCC strongly advises against it.

Consider your partner's current situation carefully. If they are already in Canada and have valid status, the open work permit incentive for inland can be incredibly appealing. If they are abroad, or if you want the added security of an appeal process, outland is likely the way to go. You can also apply outland even if your partner is in Canada, if you prefer the appeal option, but they would not be eligible for the open work permit benefit until PR is granted.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors and Applicants

Embarking on a spousal sponsorship journey means both you, the sponsor, and your partner, the applicant, must meet a specific set of eligibility criteria laid out by IRCC. It's a comprehensive check, designed to ensure both the genuineness of your relationship and the capacity to support your partner's transition to Canada.

As the sponsor, you are taking on a significant commitment, both legally and financially. Not just anyone can sponsor a partner; there are clear requirements you must meet.

Firstly, you must be either a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, and you must be at least 18 years old. If you're a Canadian citizen living abroad, you can still sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner, but you must demonstrate your intention to reside in Canada once your partner becomes a permanent resident. For permanent residents, you must be living in Canada throughout the entire sponsorship process. You cannot sponsor if you are living outside Canada. This is a critical distinction many people overlook.

A common misconception is that sponsors need to meet a minimum income requirement. For most spousal and common-law partner sponsorships, this is not true. You generally do not need to meet a specific income threshold to sponsor your partner, provided the only individuals being sponsored are your spouse/partner and their dependent children (if any). This is a huge relief for many couples, as it acknowledges that the bond of family is paramount. However, if you are sponsoring a dependent child who has dependent children of their own, or if you are sponsoring a dependent child who is not your biological or adopted child and you do not share parenthood, then you will need to meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) criteria. For the vast majority of spousal sponsorships, this income requirement is thankfully waived.

Regardless of income, you will sign an undertaking agreement, committing to provide financial support for your partner (and any accompanying dependent children) for three years from the date they become a permanent resident. This means you are responsible for their basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical care not covered by public health insurance. This isn't just a formality; it's a legally binding contract with the Canadian government. You also cannot be receiving social assistance for a reason other than disability. Furthermore, there are specific situations that might make you ineligible to sponsor, such as having a criminal record (especially for violent or sexual offenses), having previously sponsored someone and defaulted on your undertaking, or being in prison. You also cannot sponsor if you are in default of child support payments. It's essential to review these restrictions thoroughly.

Applicant Eligibility: What IRCC Looks For in Your Partner

Your partner, the person being sponsored, also has a series of hoops to jump through. Beyond meeting the definition of a spouse or partner, they must also be admissible to Canada.

First and foremost, your partner must successfully pass medical, criminal, and security checks. The medical exam is standard for all permanent residence applicants and must be completed by an IRCC-approved panel physician. This is to ensure they don't pose a risk to public health or safety, and that their health condition won't cause an "excessive demand" on Canada's health or social services. While the excessive demand criteria have been revised to be more lenient, it's still a factor. The criminal record check, involving police certificates from any country where your partner has lived for six months or more since age 18, is to ensure they don't have a history that would make them inadmissible on grounds of criminality. Similarly, security checks are conducted to ensure they don't pose a risk to Canada's national security.

The most crucial aspect of your partner's eligibility, and often the most scrutinized part of the application, is demonstrating a genuine relationship with you, the sponsor. IRCC agents are trained to identify "marriages of convenience" or fraudulent relationships. They want to see compelling evidence that your relationship is real, ongoing, and not primarily for the purpose of obtaining permanent residence. This is where your story, supported by a wealth of documents, comes into play. You will need to provide detailed evidence of how you met, your relationship's history, and your plans for the future.

Finally, your partner must not have any history of misrepresentation to IRCC or other Canadian immigration authorities. Providing false information or withholding material facts on any past or present application can lead to a multi-year ban from Canada and a refusal of the current sponsorship application. Honesty and transparency are paramount throughout the entire process. Your partner also needs to intend to reside in Canada if the sponsorship is approved.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Alright, deep breaths. This is where the real work begins. The application process for spousal sponsorship is known for its meticulous detail and the sheer volume of documents required. But fear not, we'll break it down.

Gathering Your Documents: The Mountain of Paperwork

This stage feels like preparing for a forensic audit, but trust me, attention to detail here will save you headaches later. The IRCC checklist is your bible, and you must follow it to the letter. Missing a single form or piece of evidence can lead to your application being returned, causing significant delays and frustration.

You'll need a stack of personal documents for both the sponsor and the applicant. This includes things like:

Birth certificates for both of you
Passports or travel documents (ensure they are valid for at least six months beyond your expected landing date)
Your marriage certificate (if applicable)
For common-law partners, a statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409) and extensive proof of cohabitation
National identity documents
Digital photos that meet IRCC specifications (often a pain point, so check them carefully!)

Beyond these basics, the proof of relationship is arguably the most critical component. This is where you tell your story through evidence. Don't just send a selfie; provide a narrative supported by tangible items. Think about:

Photographs: Include a variety of photos showing you and your partner together with family, friends, on vacations, at significant life events (weddings, birthdays, graduations). Dating photos from different periods of your relationship are gold. Make sure the dates and people are clear.
Communication logs: Evidence of how you stayed in touch, especially if you've been separated. This can include screenshots of messaging apps (WhatsApp, Messenger), call logs, emails, and even letters. Highlight key dates and interactions.
Joint financial documents: Joint bank accounts, shared credit cards, evidence of combined expenses (e.g., utility bills in both names, shared rent receipts, joint property ownership). These demonstrate interdependence.
Shared residential evidence: Lease agreements or property deeds showing both names, utility bills addressed to both of you at the same address, driver's licenses with the same address, government mail showing cohabitation.
Travel history: Copies of flight tickets, visas, and hotel bookings from trips you've taken together or visits to each other.
Affidavits/Letters of support: Letters from friends, family members, or colleagues who know about your relationship and can attest to its genuineness. These should be signed, dated, and ideally notarized, explaining how they know you and your partner, and how long they've known about your relationship.

For the sponsor, you'll need proof of your Canadian status (e.g., citizenship certificate, PR card) and, if applicable (though usually not for spouses), financial documents to demonstrate you meet the income requirements. You will also be asked to provide your police certificates from any country where you've lived for six months or more since age 18. Your partner will also need these. Don't forget the medical exam report from an IRCC-approved panel physician, which your partner will undergo. You can find more comprehensive guidance on preparing all the necessary materials in a guide like How to Get Your Documents Ready for an IRCC Application.

Submitting Your Application: Ensuring Completeness and Accuracy

Once you've gathered your mountain of paperwork, the next daunting task is accurately filling out the forms and submitting them correctly. There are several forms, each with a specific purpose, and errors can lead to frustrating delays.

Key forms you'll encounter include:

Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344): This is the core agreement where you commit to sponsoring your partner.
Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation (IMM 5532): This form dives deep into the history and nature of your relationship, requiring detailed answers. Be thorough and consistent with the information you provided in your supporting documents.
Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008): This is your partner's general application for permanent residence.
Additional Family Information (IMM 5406): Details about your family members.
Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669): Criminality and security information.

Beyond the forms, you'll need to pay the application fees. This typically includes a processing fee for the application, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF), and a biometrics fee. The RPRF is often paid upfront but can be paid later if you prefer. Fees can change, so always check the official IRCC website for the most current amounts. For example, as of early 2026, the total for spousal sponsorship is typically around CAD $1,135 per adult, including the processing fee, RPRF, and biometrics. Make sure to use the correct payment methods, usually online, and include proof of payment with your application.

Finally, packaging the application is crucial. IRCC provides a document checklist for your specific stream (inland or outland). Print it out, tick off every item, and organize your documents exactly as specified. Use tabs, dividers, and secure binders if necessary. A poorly organized application can reflect poorly on your attention to detail and potentially delay processing. Mail your complete package to the designated IRCC processing centre. It's often recommended to use a courier service that provides tracking, like Canada Post Xpresspost or FedEx, so you have proof of delivery. Getting this step right is paramount to getting your application into the system. For a full breakdown of costs and timelines, check out Understanding the Cost and Timeline of the Immigration Process in Canada.

What Happens After Submission: Processing, Biometrics, and Interviews

Once you've sent off your painstakingly prepared application, it's natural to feel a mix of relief and anxiety. What happens now? The waiting game begins, but there are specific milestones to look out for.

The first thing you'll receive, usually within a few weeks to a few months, is an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). This email or letter confirms that IRCC has received your application and has begun processing it. It will also provide you with your application number, which is essential for tracking its progress. This is a moment to celebrate; your application is officially in the system!

Shortly after the AOR, or sometimes even alongside it, your partner (the applicant) will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). This letter will instruct them to provide their fingerprints and a photograph at an official Service Canada location within 30 days. Biometrics are a mandatory part of the application for most permanent residence categories, including spousal sponsorship. Failure to provide biometrics within the specified timeframe can lead to delays or even refusal. This is where your partner needs to act quickly, booking an appointment if required (though often walk-ins are accepted for biometrics). For more details on this, you can refer to Understanding Medical Exams and Police Certificates for Canadian Immigration.

Throughout the processing, IRCC may request additional documents or clarifications. It’s vital to respond promptly to these requests. They might also contact your partner for a medical exam, if not already completed, and for police certificates from any country they have lived in.

While not all applicants are interviewed, IRCC reserves the right to call you or your partner, or both, for an interview. This usually happens if the officer has questions about the genuineness of your relationship or concerns about inadmissibility. If an interview is requested, it's crucial to be honest, consistent, and prepared to answer questions about every aspect of your relationship. It's a stressful experience, but remember that the goal is to confirm the information you've already provided. Be yourself, be truthful, and let your genuine connection shine through. You can keep tabs on your application's status online using your application number. Regular checks are a good idea, and you can learn more about this by reading How to Check My Immigration Application Status in Canada?.

Key Considerations and Potential Hurdles

Even with a perfect application, the spousal sponsorship journey can throw a few curveballs. Being prepared for these common challenges can help you navigate them with greater confidence and less stress.

Demonstrating a Genuine Relationship: Beyond the Paperwork

This is, hands down, the area where many couples feel the most pressure. IRCC is hyper-vigilant about "marriages of convenience" – relationships entered into primarily for immigration purposes. While they don't explicitly discriminate against factors like large age gaps or cultural differences, these elements might lead an officer to scrutinize your application more closely. The goal is to prove, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that your relationship is authentic, ongoing, and committed.

Think of your application as a love story, meticulously documented. You need to provide a compelling narrative of your relationship's evolution. This means more than just a marriage certificate. It means demonstrating interdependence and a shared life. Consider these practical examples:

Financial Commingling: Joint bank accounts are incredibly strong evidence. Show transactions where you're both contributing to household expenses, buying gifts for each other, or saving together. Even if one partner earns more, evidence of joint financial decision-making or shared financial goals is important.
Shared Responsibilities: Beyond bills, do you have shared lease agreements, property ownership, or even joint pet ownership? These illustrate a shared future.
Social Proof: Letters from friends and family are excellent, but also consider social media posts, invitations to events where you were presented as a couple, or even references from landlords or colleagues who know you together.
Communication: If you've spent time apart, consistent and heartfelt communication is key. Screenshots of video calls, messages, and emails that show the depth and intimacy of your relationship, discussing daily life, future plans, and emotional support, are invaluable.
Travel and Visits: Provide copies of all travel documents – flight tickets, boarding passes, visas, and photos from your trips together or visits to each other's countries. Show that you actively make efforts to be together.
Future Plans: Include a brief statement or even documents that show your plans for life in Canada together – where you intend to live, work, and build your future.

Consistency across all your documents and forms is paramount. Any discrepancies, no matter how small, can raise red flags. Take the time to ensure every detail aligns, from birth dates to addresses to the timeline of your relationship.

Addressing Medical Inadmissibility or Criminal Records

While many applications sail through, some encounter hurdles related to the applicant's past or health. These can be serious but aren't always insurmountable.

Medical inadmissibility falls into a few categories:

Danger to public health: This relates to infectious diseases like active tuberculosis. In most cases, if treatable, the applicant may be required to undergo treatment before or upon arrival in Canada.
Danger to public safety: This applies to conditions associated with sudden incapacitation, unpredictable violent behaviour, or cognitive impairment, which could pose a risk.
Excessive demand on health or social services: This used to be a major hurdle but has seen significant changes. Canada updated its policy to allow more individuals with disabilities or certain health conditions to be admitted. The "excessive demand" threshold is now much higher, generally over three times the average per capita health and social services cost. If your partner's condition falls into this category, you might still be able to make a case demonstrating how their needs could be mitigated or how you, as the sponsor, could cover some costs. This is a complex area, and sometimes legal counsel is beneficial.

Criminal records are another serious point of concern for IRCC. If your partner has a past criminal conviction, they might be deemed inadmissible. The severity of the crime, when it occurred, and whether it would be considered an indictable offense in Canada are all factors. Depending on the situation, there might be pathways to overcome criminal inadmissibility:

Deemed Rehabilitation: For less serious offenses that occurred a long time ago, your partner might be "deemed rehabilitated" if a certain period has passed since the completion of their sentence (usually 10 years).
Individual Rehabilitation: For more serious offenses or if less time has passed, your partner might need to apply for individual rehabilitation, demonstrating that they have reformed and are unlikely to re-offend.
Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): In urgent situations or for minor offenses, a TRP might allow temporary entry to Canada, but this is usually not a solution for permanent residence.

It's crucial to be completely transparent about any criminal history from the outset. Hiding information will almost certainly lead to a refusal and a ban from Canada. If your partner has a criminal record, it's highly advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to understand the best course of action.

Open Work Permit for Inland Sponsorship

One of the most appealing advantages of the inland spousal sponsorship stream is the possibility for your partner to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP). This can be a game-changer, allowing your partner to work legally in Canada while waiting for their permanent residence application to be processed. Imagine the relief of having two incomes, or simply allowing your partner to contribute to the household and build their Canadian work experience without the stress of being in limbo.

To be eligible for an OWP, your partner must:

Be in Canada.
Have submitted an application for permanent residence under the spousal or common-law partner in Canada class.
Have an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter for their PR application.
Have valid temporary resident status (as a visitor, student, or worker) or be eligible for restoration of status.

The OWP application can be submitted concurrently with the PR application, or it can be submitted after the AOR for the PR application is received. If you apply concurrently, ensure you clearly indicate this on the forms and include all necessary documents for both applications in one package. The processing time for an OWP is generally much shorter than for PR, often taking just a few months. Once issued, the OWP allows your partner to work for virtually any employer in Canada, in any occupation, without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a specific job offer. This flexibility is invaluable for newcomers.

This opportunity significantly reduces financial strain and helps your partner integrate more smoothly into Canadian life, fostering independence and reducing anxiety during the waiting period. It's a key reason why many couples choose the inland sponsorship path, despite some of its potential drawbacks. For a deeper dive into this specific benefit, you can consult Understanding the Open Work Permit for Spouses in Canada.

Life After Approval: Your Partner's First Steps in Canada

The day that "Permanent Resident" stamp arrives is monumental – the culmination of patience, paperwork, and perseverance. But the journey doesn't end there; it's just the beginning of your partner's new life in Canada.

Receiving Permanent Residence Status

The moment of truth arrives with the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). For outland applicants, this document is usually mailed to your partner, who will then typically use it to "land" in Canada at a port of entry. At the border, an immigration officer will review their documents, confirm their identity, and officially grant them permanent resident status. This can be a brief, formality-driven interview or a more detailed one, depending on the officer. It's crucial to present all original documents, including passports, the COPR, and any other requested paperwork.

For inland applicants, the process is slightly different. If they are already in Canada, they will receive their COPR, and often, an invitation for a virtual or in-person "landing interview" will follow. This is a final check to ensure all information is still accurate and that no changes have occurred since the application was submitted. Once complete, your partner officially becomes a permanent resident without needing to leave Canada.

Soon after landing or completing the final steps, your partner will receive their Permanent Resident (PR) card in the mail. This card is essential for proving their PR status and for re-entering Canada after international travel. It’s their official ID as a permanent resident. While waiting for the physical card, the COPR serves as proof of status. Always keep the COPR in a safe place, as it's a vital document. Understanding Permanent Resident Status and the PR Card in Canada has more details on this.

Rights and Responsibilities of a New Permanent Resident

Becoming a permanent resident opens up a world of opportunities and, naturally, comes with certain responsibilities. Your partner now has many of the same rights as a Canadian citizen, with a few key differences.

They have the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada. This means they can pursue their career goals, further their education, and choose any province or territory to call home. Crucially, they also gain access to Canada's comprehensive social services, including the universal healthcare system. This is a huge relief for many newcomers, though it's important to remember that there is often a waiting period (usually up to three months) before provincial health coverage kicks in. During this initial period, it's highly advisable to have private health insurance, and this is where a brand like Cigna Global could offer coverage. They specialize in international health insurance, which can bridge that gap and provide peace of mind until provincial plans like OHIP or MSP become active. For a deeper understanding of the healthcare system, including details on waiting periods, you can explore The Complete Guide to Healthcare in Canada for Newcomers (2027).

The three-year financial undertaking you signed as the sponsor now comes into play. You are legally obligated to support your partner for this period, regardless of any changes in your relationship (e.g., separation or divorce). This means if your partner requires social assistance during these three years, the government can seek to recover those costs from you. It's a serious commitment and reinforces the importance of a genuine, stable relationship.

New permanent residents are also expected to obey Canadian laws at all levels of government, federal, provincial, and municipal. They must also pay taxes and respect the values of Canadian society. While permanent residents can vote and run for political office at the municipal level in some provinces, they cannot vote in federal or provincial elections, nor can they hold a Canadian passport. These rights are reserved for citizens.

Regarding logistics, as your partner starts settling in, they'll need to think about setting up other essentials. If they are coming from abroad, they'll need to consider how to move their belongings efficiently. Services like Sirelo, which offers a platform to compare international moving companies, can be incredibly helpful in finding reliable movers to bring their life's possessions to Canada without breaking the bank. From getting a provincial health card to acquiring a driver's licence to finding a job, there's a lot to do, and these steps are crucial for their full integration.

The Journey Towards Canadian Citizenship

For many permanent residents, the ultimate goal is to become a Canadian citizen. Permanent residence is a crucial step on that path, but it's not the final destination.

To apply for Canadian citizenship, your partner will need to meet specific residency requirements. Generally, this means they must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) out of the five years immediately before they apply. The time spent in Canada as a temporary resident (e.g., on a work or study permit) before becoming a permanent resident can sometimes count towards this, but usually at a reduced rate (each day counts as half a day, up to a maximum of 365 days).

Beyond physical presence, applicants must also have filed their income taxes, demonstrate adequate knowledge of Canada's official languages (English or French), and pass a citizenship test that covers Canadian history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

The journey from permanent resident to citizen is a natural progression for many, symbolizing a deeper commitment to their new home. It grants the right to vote, hold a Canadian passport, and fully participate in all aspects of Canadian democracy. This step is usually taken after they have built a life and established roots in Canada. For more information on this final step in the immigration journey, refer to Canadian Citizenship: How to Apply After Permanent Residence (2027).

Inland vs. Outland Spousal Sponsorship: A Quick Comparison

To help you visualize the key differences and advantages, here’s a handy comparison table of the two main sponsorship streams:

Feature	Inland Sponsorship	Outland Sponsorship
Applicant's Location	Must be physically in Canada	Can be in Canada or outside Canada (preferred if abroad)
Temporary Status	Must have valid temporary resident status (or eligible for restoration)	Can be in any status or abroad
Open Work Permit (OWP)	Eligible to apply for an OWP while PR is processing	Not eligible for an OWP based on PR application
Travel During Processing	Not recommended to leave Canada; re-entry not guaranteed	Can travel internationally (if they have proper documents to enter other countries)
Right to Appeal Refusal	Generally no right to appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD)	Yes, has the right to appeal to the IAD
Processing Office	Processed within Canada	Processed by the visa office for applicant's country of residence
Flexibility	Offers stability for applicant already in Canada	Offers flexibility if applicant is abroad or wants appeal option

This table provides a quick overview, but remember to consider your personal circumstances, including your partner's current status and location, and your collective comfort with potential risks, before making a final decision.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies in Canada can change frequently. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, it may not reflect the most current legal developments. You should consult with an authorized immigration consultant or an immigration lawyer for advice regarding your specific situation. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.