As a sponsor, you’ll need to submit an undertaking along with the application to assure seamless financial support for your spouse and dependent children. This includes essential needs such as food, housing, clothing, personal care, and healthcare expenses not covered by Public Health Insurance. This undertaking takes effect once your spouse or common-law partner becomes a permanent resident, with obligations lasting throughout the undertaking’s duration (typically three years). The approval authority for spousal sponsorship applications is Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and once submitted, the undertaking cannot be withdrawn or canceled during the undertaking’s effective period.

Applicants receiving disability benefits or Employment Insurance Benefits can still sponsor a spouse, provided they have sufficient income to support their spouse financially and no ongoing bankruptcy proceedings.