Spass Application Check: A Comprehensive Guide to Verifying Your Eligibility

Introduction

The Spousal Sponsorship Program (Spass) is a Canadian immigration program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners to live in Canada. To be eligible for the Spass program, the sponsor and the sponsored person must meet certain requirements. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Spass application check process and help you determine if you are eligible to sponsor your loved one.

Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsor

To sponsor your spouse or common-law partner, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to provide financial support for your spouse or common-law partner
• Not be receiving social assistance benefits for reasons other than disability
• Have not sponsored another spouse or common-law partner in the past five years
• Have not been convicted of certain serious crimes
• Be living in Canada or intend to live in Canada with your spouse or common-law partner

Income Requirements for the Sponsor

In order to meet the income requirements for Spass, you must earn a certain amount of money each year. The minimum income requirement is based on the number of family members you are sponsoring, including yourself, your spouse or common-law partner, and any dependent children.

The table below shows the minimum income requirements for different family sizes:

*Source: Government of Canada

Income Verification

To verify your income, you will need to submit proof of income from the following sources:

• Employment: Employment letter, pay stubs, or T4 slips
• Self-employment: Financial statements, tax returns, or invoices
• Investment income: Bank statements, investment account statements, or dividend slips
• Government benefits: Letters from government agencies confirming the amount of benefits received

Step-by-Step Approach to Spass Application Check

Step 1: Gather the required documents.

Before you start your Spass application, you will need to gather all of the required documents. These documents include:

• Proof of your Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
• Proof of your income
• Proof of your relationship to your spouse or common-law partner
• Medical examination results
• Police clearance certificates

Step 2: Complete the Spass application form.

The Spass application form is available online on the Government of Canada website. You will need to complete the form in English or French and provide all of the required information.

Step 3: Submit your application.

Once you have completed the application form, you will need to submit it to the Canadian visa office responsible for processing your application. The visa office will review your application and determine if you are eligible for the Spass program.

Step 4: Wait for a decision.

The processing time for Spass applications varies depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the visa office. However, you should expect to wait several months for a decision.

Step 5: Prepare for your interview.

If your application is approved, you may be called in for an interview. The interview will be conducted by a visa officer and will give you the opportunity to provide additional information about your application.

Step 6: Receive your decision.

After your interview, the visa officer will make a final decision on your application. If your application is approved, you will be issued a visa that will allow your spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada.

Benefits of Sponsoring Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner

There are many benefits to sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada, including:

• Family reunification: Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner will allow you to live together in Canada.
• Increased income: Your spouse or common-law partner may be able to work in Canada, which can help to increase your family's income.
• Social support: Having your spouse or common-law partner in Canada can provide you with social support and companionship.
• Improved quality of life: Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner can help to improve your overall quality of life.

FAQs about Spass Application Check

1. What is the cost of sponsoring my spouse or common-law partner?

The cost of sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner will vary depending on the complexity of your application and the number of family members you are sponsoring. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 in application fees.

2. How long does it take to process a Spass application?

The processing time for Spass applications varies depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the visa office. However, you should expect to wait several months for a decision.

3. What are the most common reasons for Spass application refusals?

The most common reasons for Spass application refusals include:

• Incomplete applications: Ensure that all required documents are included in your application.
• Insufficient income: Making sure that you meet the income requirements for Spass.
• Criminal convictions: Any criminal convictions can affect your eligibility for Spass.
• Relationship not bonafide: The visa officer must be convinced that your relationship with your sponsored person is genuine.

4. Can I appeal a refused Spass application?

Yes, you can appeal a refused Spass application to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). However, you must submit your appeal within 60 days of receiving the refusal decision.

5. What are the alternatives to sponsoring my spouse or common-law partner?

If you are not eligible to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner, there are other options available, such as:

• Family reunification under the Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) program
• Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
• Applying for a spousal open work permit

6. How can I get help with my Spass application?

There are many resources available to help you with your Spass application, including:

• Immigration consultants: Immigration consultants can provide you with guidance and support throughout the application process.
• Legal aid: Legal aid organizations can provide you with free or low-cost legal advice and representation.
• Community organizations: Community organizations can provide you with information and support about the Spass program.

Conclusion

Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada can be a rewarding experience. However, it is important to understand the eligibility requirements and the application process before you begin your application. By following the step-by-step approach outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of success.

Additional Resources

• Government of Canada website on the Spouse/Common-Law Partner in Canada Class
• Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC)
• Canadian Bar Association's Immigration Law Section