Spousal sponsorship continues to be one of the most vital immigration pathways for families. In 2025, applicants remain anxious about one key question: how long will it take?

While IRCC has prioritized family reunification, processing times still depend on multiple factors—such as whether you’re applying from inside or outside Canada, how complete your application is, and whether any red flags delay review.

To get the most accurate estimate, use IRCC’s official processing time checker:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html

Select “Permanent residence” → “Family sponsorship” → “Sponsoring a spouse, partner or dependent child.” You’ll be asked whether the applicant is inside or outside Canada. Based on that, you’ll see the most recent average wait times.

Generally speaking, inland sponsorships are currently taking between 12 to 15 months. These are for couples where the applicant is already in Canada, often on a temporary status. While waiting, applicants may be eligible for an open work permit. Outland sponsorships, which are submitted for applicants outside Canada, are processing slightly faster on average—about 10 to 12 months—but this varies depending on which visa office handles the case.

One of the biggest reasons for delay is incomplete applications. Even something small, like a missing document or a poorly written explanation letter, can trigger a procedural fairness letter and push your file into extended review.

Officers also examine the genuineness of the relationship. If the timeline of your relationship is unclear, if communication records are thin, or if there’s little to show cohabitation or shared responsibilities, your file may be flagged.

Applicants also run into delays if the sponsor is not eligible. For example, sponsors living outside Canada without clear proof they will return upon approval, or those with outstanding undertakings or support obligations, may cause the application to stall.

Finally, delays also stem from security screenings or criminal record checks. To avoid issues, allow Marwah-Jad Immigration to handle your case. We will help you build a plan that creates your future in Canada.