What to Do If Your Spousal Sponsorship Application Is Delayed

Applying for spousal sponsorship in Canada is a hopeful step toward uniting or reuniting with your loved one. However, immigration processing times can sometimes be longer than expected, leaving applicants anxious and uncertain about what to do next. If your spousal sponsorship application is delayed, don’t panic—there are practical steps you can take to understand the reason for the delay and move your case forward.

In this article, we’ll outline the common causes of sponsorship delays and provide a clear roadmap on what to do if your application seems stuck.

Common Reasons for Spousal Sponsorship Delays

Before taking action, it’s important to understand why your application may be delayed. Some of the most common reasons include:

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation

Missing documents, unsigned forms, or inconsistencies in the application package can trigger delays or requests for additional information.

2. Increased Background Checks

If IRCC needs to conduct deeper background or security checks—especially for applicants from certain countries—it can extend processing times.

3. Verification of Relationship

In cases where the relationship appears weak or inconsistent (e.g., different addresses, short courtship, or language barriers), IRCC may take extra time to assess the genuineness of the marriage or partnership.

4. COVID-19 or Operational Delays

Although Canada has largely returned to normal operations, global events and processing backlogs still affect timelines.

5. Inland vs. Outland Applications

Inland applications (where the spouse is already in Canada) typically take longer than outland applications. Each stream has different timelines.

What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed

1. Check Normal Processing Times

Start by comparing your timeline with the official IRCC processing times, available on the Government of Canada’s website. If you're still within that window, it may just be a matter of patience.

2. Use the IRCC Web Form to Make an Inquiry

If your application is outside the normal timeframe, you can submit a case-specific inquiry through the IRCC Web Form.

Make sure to:

• Include your application number and UCI.
  
  

• Provide detailed context about the delay.
  
  

• Ask if any further documents or actions are required.
  
  

3. Contact Your Local MP’s Office

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can contact their Member of Parliament (MP) to request an update on an immigration application. MPs often have a direct line to IRCC and can help escalate the matter or clarify issues.

4. Review Your Application for Gaps

If you submitted the application without professional help, review it again. Look for:

• Inconsistencies in dates or personal information
  
  

• Lack of sufficient relationship evidence (e.g., photos, chats, financial interdependence)
  
  

• Missing police clearance or medical reports
  
  

If needed, consult an immigration lawyer to do a thorough review.

5. Respond Promptly to Any IRCC Requests

If IRCC has contacted you for further documentation or clarification, respond quickly and thoroughly. Delays in replying to their requests can extend your processing time or lead to refusal.

6. Seek Legal Support

An experienced immigration lawyer can contact IRCC on your behalf, identify red flags in your file, and help prepare additional documentation or legal arguments. If the delay is due to potential refusal, a lawyer can also advise you on the best appeal options or next steps.

Tips to Avoid Further Delays

• Keep your contact information updated in your IRCC profile.
  
  

• Avoid frequent follow-ups unless the delay is beyond standard timelines.
  
  

• Gather strong evidence of your relationship—this can include joint bank accounts, travel history, shared leases, photos, and communications.
  
  

Final Thoughts

A delay in your spousal sponsorship application can be emotionally draining, but staying proactive and informed is key. Understand the process, take the right steps to inquire or escalate, and don’t hesitate to consult a legal professional if needed.