What Is the Difference Between Inland and Outland Spousal Sponsorship?

RNR Canadian Immigration Consultancy Inc. explains the key differences between inland and outland spousal sponsorship to guide your application.
What Is Inland Spousal Sponsorship?
Inland spousal sponsorship is designed for spouses, common-law, or conjugal partners who are already living together in Canada, typically when the sponsored spouse has valid temporary status, such as a visitor, student, or worker permit. With inland sponsorship, the sponsored partner can apply to remain in Canada while their application is being processed, often allowing them to apply for an open work permit. This means they can live and work legally in Canada during the wait, which can range from 12 to 24 months depending on processing times.
One important aspect of inland sponsorship is that the sponsored spouse cannot leave Canada without risking their application status unless they obtain a Temporary Resident Permit or leave under very specific circumstances. This makes inland sponsorship ideal for couples who prioritize staying together during processing but requires careful planning. RNR Canadian Immigration Consultancy Inc. assists with the complex paperwork, ensures your application is complete, and offers advice on maintaining legal status in Canada during processing. We help you understand the benefits and limitations of inland sponsorship so you can make the best decision for your family.
What Is Outland Spousal Sponsorship?
Outland spousal sponsorship is for couples where the sponsored spouse lives outside Canada or prefers to process their application through their home country or current residence. Unlike inland sponsorship, outland applications allow the sponsored spouse to travel freely while the application is processed, which can be an advantage for work or family reasons. Outland applications typically go through a Canadian visa office abroad and can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on the country and case complexity.
One benefit of outland sponsorship is that the sponsored spouse may be eligible for an open work permit under certain conditions, especially if they have previously been authorized to work in Canada. However, unlike inland sponsorship, the applicant must usually wait outside Canada for the final decision, which can be challenging for some families. RNR Canadian Immigration Consultancy Inc. helps you weigh the pros and cons of outland sponsorship based on your unique circumstances. We guide you through the application process, assist with preparing the necessary evidence of a genuine relationship, and communicate with visa offices to keep your case on track. Whether inland or outland, RNR Canadian Immigration Consultancy Inc. is your trusted partner for reuniting your family in Canada.