If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident planning to sponsor your spouse or partner for permanent residence (PR) in Canada, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to apply through inland or outland sponsorship. Each pathway comes with its own eligibility requirements, advantages, and limitations. Making the right choice can significantly impact the speed, convenience, and success of your sponsorship application.
Understanding Inland and Outland Sponsorship
Inland and outland are commonly used terms to differentiate between two classes of sponsorship under Canada’s immigration system:
- Inland Sponsorship refers to an application submitted under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class, where both the sponsor and the sponsored person are living in Canada.
- Outland Sponsorship refers to an application under the Family Class, typically submitted when the sponsored person is outside of Canada. However, applicants residing in Canada can still apply under this class if they prefer.
Key Differences Between Inland and Outland Sponsorship
| Feature | Inland Sponsorship | Outland Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Application Class | Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada | Family Class |
| Location | Both sponsor and partner must live in Canada | Sponsor in Canada, partner usually outside Canada |
| Travel During Processing | Limited travel (sponsored person should stay in Canada) | Sponsored person can travel in and out of Canada |
| Work Permit Eligibility | Eligible for Open Work Permit (OWP) if inside Canada | Eligible for OWP only if inside Canada |
| Appeal Rights | No appeal if refused | Right to appeal a refusal decision |
| Processing Time | Usually 12-18 months | Can be faster depending on country |
Who Should Apply Inland?
Choose inland sponsorship if:
- Your spouse or partner is already in Canada with valid status (visitor, student, worker).
- You want to apply for an open work permit for the sponsored person.
- You’re okay with staying in Canada during the entire processing period.
Who Should Apply Outland?
Choose outland sponsorship if:
- Your spouse or partner lives outside of Canada.
- You want to retain the right to appeal in case of refusal.
- You anticipate travel or international responsibilities during processing.
- You are in a conjugal relationship, which is only eligible under outland sponsorship.
Important: Only Canadian citizens can sponsor their partners from outside Canada. If you’re a permanent resident, you must be residing in Canada to sponsor.
Common Concerns
Many applicants wonder whether inland or outland sponsorship offers faster processing. The answer can vary depending on the visa office and complexity of the case. While inland applications may take slightly longer, they come with the added benefit of an open work permit, allowing the sponsored partner to work during the processing period.
Similarly, if your relationship is complicated (e.g., long-distance, cultural differences, past refusals), outland sponsorship may give you more flexibility, especially with appeal options.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You
At ICC Immigration, we understand how important family reunification is. With over 20 years of combined experience in Canadian immigration, our team will:
- Assess your case and recommend whether inland or outland sponsorship suits your circumstances.
- Prepare a strong application package to reduce delays or refusals.
- Apply for an Open Work Permit if your partner is in Canada.
- Help with additional immigration options, including Express Entry, PNPs, and Study or Work Permits if needed.
Instead of navigating the system alone—or relying on risky pathways like asylum claims—we guide you toward secure and stable immigration solutions.
Why Choose ICC Immigration?
- Permanent Residency Pathways: From sponsorships to Express Entry and PNPs, we ensure smooth, complete applications.
- Legal Expertise: We provide legal advice that helps you meet IRCC’s exact requirements.
- End-to-End Support: We’re with you from consultation to the final PR decision.
- No Risk Routes: Avoid uncertainty by choosing regulated, legal pathways.