Length of Processing Sponsorship Application

Once your application papers for sponsorship are submitted, it generally takes between 49 days (1½ months) and 90 days (3 months) for the papers to be processed. The length of processing time differs depending on many factors including the number of applications that the government receives.

Things to Avoid

Incomplete Application
If your application form is not complete, that is, there is missing information (for example, missing documents or a missing signature), it will take longer because the application will be returned to you to complete and you will have to submit it again.

Incorrect Information on Application
If you have put incorrect or wrong information on your application or have forgotten to notify Immigration authorities of a change of address, then your application will take more time to process. If you knowingly put false information on your sponsorship application, you could be fined up to $100,000 (Canadian) or have to spend some time in jail. Submitting a false application is a serious offence.

Non-Payment of Fees
Your sponsorship application will not begin to be processed until you and/or your husband pay all of the fees required of you. If you have paid the incorrect amount of money, you will have to pay what you owe before the application can be processed. This can slow down the processing time.

Irregular Applications
If your application for sponsorship is not routine, that is, your and your sponsor’s situation is somewhat different from the usual, the application will most likely take longer to process. You will not know if your application is irregular until you have submitted it and have heard from an official telling you of your irregular situation.