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First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check you can be a sponsor

Family sponsorshipApplyStep 4 of 9

BlockedSponsor + applicant · RequiredYou are here

4. Submit both applications together

The sponsorship application and the permanent residence application go in together, as one package, online.

Waiting on: Understand the undertaking you sign

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 4 of 9 · RequiredClose

Submit both applications together

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepSponsor your spouse, partner or child: how to applycanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

The sponsorship application and the permanent residence application go in together, as one package, online. You pay processing fees for yourself, the person you're sponsoring and their dependants, plus biometrics. The right of permanent residence fee comes before they land.

Why it's required: The applicant must type their own name to sign. A representative or a helper cannot sign for them, and an application signed by someone else is not validly signed.

SubmittedAs one packageSponsorship and permanent residence applications go together.

FeesCheck the listThey depend on who is included; IRCC publishes the current amounts.

SigningBy the applicantThey type their own name. Nobody may do it for them.

Documents you'll need

Proof of the relationship: photos, messages, joint finances, travel
Identity and civil status documents for everyone included
The completed undertaking and sponsorship agreement
Fee receipts

Before this step

BlockedUnderstand the undertaking you sign

Finishing this unlocks: Give biometrics, Medical exam with a panel physician, Police certificates