Processing Times and Open Work Permits

In May 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported a 44.3% increase in spousal sponsorship arrivals, with 7,200 new permanent residents settling in Canada under this program. The processing time for sponsorship applications for spouses or common-law partners outside Quebec has improved to 14 months, down from 20 months the previous year. Additionally, open work permits are now available to spouses and common-law partners of most work permit holders and study permit holders, allowing them to work while awaiting permanent residence decisions.

Policy Changes and Immigration Levels

In October 2024, the Canadian government announced a significant reduction in immigration targets, decreasing the number of new permanent residents from 485,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025, with further reductions to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. This policy shift aims to address concerns over rising housing prices and the national debate on immigration ahead of the federal elections in 2025. The move has sparked controversy, with migrant advocates criticizing it as detrimental to migrant rights.

Quebec-Specific Delays

In Quebec, family reunification delays have increased, with waiting times for sponsoring a spouse living abroad rising from 27 to 34 months, compared to 13 months in other provinces. This increase is due to a limit on the number of spaces available for family reunification in Quebec, causing the number of waiting families to grow, reaching 38,800 in July 2023. The Quebec Ministry of Immigration has expressed understanding of the stress these delays cause to families and has attributed the responsibility to the federal government.

These changes highlight Canada’s approach to spousal immigration and the challenges faced by families looking to reunite.