Inland Spousal Sponsorship VS Outland Spousal Sponsorship

Reuniting with your loved one in Canada is an exciting prospect, and the Canadian government offers two pathways to make this dream a reality: Inland Spousal Sponsorship and Outland Spousal Sponsorship.

*For a general understanding of spousal sponsorship in Canada, visit our Spousal Sponsorship page.

Difference between Inland Spousal Sponsorship and Outland Spousal Sponsorship in Canada

In Canada, when a citizen or permanent resident wishes to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence, they can choose between two main avenues: Inland vs Outland Spousal Sponsorship. Here are the key differences between the two:

Feature	Inland Spousal Sponsorship	Outland Spousal Sponsorship
Location of Sponsored Person	The spouse/common-law partner is inside Canada and must remain in the country throughout the application process.	The sponsored person is outside Canada but may also be in Canada with the possibility of traveling in and out.
Processing Times	Generally longer processing times, though they vary.	Typically has shorter processing times. Processing is handled by the visa office in the applicant’s home country or legal residence.
Work Permit Eligibility	Applicants can apply for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work while waiting for a decision.	No automatic work permit eligibility. If already in Canada with a valid status (work/study permit), they can continue working or studying.
Appeals for Refusal	No automatic right to appeal if the application is refused.	The sponsor has the right to appeal the refusal decision to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).
Travel Considerations	Travel outside Canada is risky. If the sponsored person is denied re-entry, the Inland application could be refused.	The sponsored person can travel in and out of Canada but must always meet entry requirements.

Inland vs Outland Spousal Sponsorship in Canada - Advantages and Disadvantages

It's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each based on individual circumstances. Let's break down the pros and cons between inland vs outland spousal sponsorship:

Inland Spousal Sponsorship

Advantages:

1. Presence Together: The couple can remain together in Canada throughout the application process.

2. Open Work Permit: The sponsored spouse or common-law partner can apply for an Open Work Permit alongside their permanent residence application, allowing them to work in Canada during the processing time.

3. Clarity on Eligibility: The eligibility criteria and documentation requirements are clearly outlined for those applying from within Canada.

Disadvantages:

1. No Guaranteed Right to Appeal: If the application is refused, there isn't an automatic right to appeal.

2. Travel Risk: While the sponsored person can technically leave Canada during the process, re-entry isn't guaranteed. If they are denied re-entry for any reason, it can jeopardize the application.

3. Longer Processing Times: Historically, the Inland process has had longer processing times, though this can vary.

Outland Spousal Sponsorship

Advantages:

1. Shorter Processing Times: Typically, Outland applications have had shorter processing times, but it's always good to check the latest statistics.

2. Right to Appeal: If the application is refused, there's generally a right to appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division.

3. Flexibility in Travel: The sponsored person can usually travel in and out of Canada during the processing. However, they always need to meet entry requirements when returning.

4. Less Risk of Interruption: If the sponsored spouse or partner is outside of Canada, there's less risk of their status in Canada becoming an issue (e.g., an expired visa) that could interrupt the application process.

Disadvantages:

1. Separation: Depending on the situation, the couple might need to live apart during the processing, which can be emotionally and financially challenging.

2. No Automatic Work Rights in Canada: The sponsored person doesn't automatically have the right to work in Canada during the processing, unless they have another valid permit or visa that allows it.

3. Varying Requirements: The application might be processed through different visa offices outside Canada, and each office might have slightly varying requirements or processing times.

Use Case Scenarios

Inland Spousal Sponsorship Success Story

John, a Canadian citizen, and Jane, a foreign national, got married in Canada while Jane was on a temporary work permit. They decided to apply for Inland Spousal Sponsorship, allowing them to live together in Canada during the application process. Jane also applied for an open work permit, which allowed her to continue working in Canada. After 14 months, Jane's permanent residency application was approved, and they continue to live happily together in Canada.

Outland Spousal Sponsorship Success Story

Mike, a Canadian citizen, and Sarah, a foreign national, got married in Sarah's home country. They decided to apply for Outland Spousal Sponsorship. Sarah remained in her home country during the application process, and Mike returned to Canada. After eight months, Sarah's permanent residency application was approved, and she moved to Canada to start her new life with Mike.

Deciding between Inland and Outland Spousal Sponsorship depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. Inland Spousal Sponsorship allows couples to live together in Canada during the application process, with the possibility of an open work permit for the sponsored person. However, it often comes with longer processing times and travel restrictions.

On the other hand, Outland Spousal Sponsorship generally has shorter processing times and fewer travel restrictions but may require the couple to live apart during the application process. Additionally, the sponsored person is not eligible for an open work permit.

Both Inland and Outland Sponsorships have their own set of advantages and considerations. The choice between them often depends on individual circumstances, including where the sponsored person currently resides, their need to work in Canada during the application process, and the couple's comfort level with the sponsored person traveling during the processing period.

To determine the best option for your situation, consider using our Sponsorship Eligibility Tool or consult with an experienced immigration consultant.