Canadian citizens and permanent residents may be able to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence. Explore the categories below to learn who can apply, how R-Way prepares a file, and what to expect during processing.
01Spousal and Common-law Sponsorship
Who can apply
- Sponsors who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents and meet eligibility requirements
- Spouses or common-law partners in a genuine relationship
- Applicants applying from inside or outside Canada depending on their circumstances
How R-Way prepares your application
- Confirm the appropriate application route based on your goals and immigration status
- Organize relationship evidence and a clear, accurate relationship timeline
- Prepare explanations and supporting letters where relevant
- Review forms, addresses, personal history, and documents for consistency
What to expect
- IRCC assesses sponsor eligibility and the permanent residence application
- Biometrics, medical exams, and further documentation may be requested
- An interview may be required if an officer needs more information
- Processing times vary; complete and consistent submissions can help avoid unnecessary delays
02Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship
Current intake status: IRCC paused the Parents and Grandparents Program for new applications and new interest-to-sponsor submissions until further notice. Check official program status ↗
Who can apply
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have been invited under the applicable intake and meet sponsorship requirements
- Sponsors who meet the applicable income requirements
- Parents or grandparents who meet admissibility requirements
How R-Way prepares your application
- Review sponsor eligibility and required income documentation
- Prepare family information, civil documents, and relationship evidence
- Organize medical, police, and travel records where requested
- Check forms and supporting documents for completeness and consistency
What to expect
- The Parents and Grandparents Program is paused for new intake as of October 2026; IRCC continues processing existing applications
- Do not submit an application without an invitation where an invitation is required
- Current alternatives, including the super visa, may be worth considering
03Sponsoring Your Dependent Children
Who can apply
- Eligible Canadian citizen or permanent resident sponsors of dependent children
- Children who meet the applicable dependency definition
- Families with appropriate custody, consent, and supporting documents when required
How R-Way prepares your application
- Review dependency and family circumstances
- Organize birth certificates, custody records, and consent letters when applicable
- Prepare explanations for complex family circumstances
- Check forms and family records for consistency
What to expect
- IRCC may request additional custody or consent information
- Medical examinations or biometrics may apply depending on age and current rules
- Processing times depend on circumstances and completeness
04Sponsoring Your RelativesOrphaned siblings, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, and other eligible relative categories.
Who can apply
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents who qualify to sponsor a relative under a limited eligible category
- Orphaned siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren who meet specific requirements
- Other relatives only where the applicable strict conditions are met
How R-Way prepares your application
- Confirm which sponsorship category, if any, applies
- Organize proof of family relationships and civil records
- Review admissibility and identity requirements
- Prepare explanations where family histories or documents are complex
What to expect
- These categories have strict eligibility criteria and may require extensive proof
- IRCC may request additional documents or family relationship verification
- Processing varies depending on the circumstances
Eligibility and program intake can change. Please check the current requirements before applying. No application result is guaranteed.