Introduction
Canada continues to welcome thousands of new immigrants every year, many of whom arrive not just to build careers or pursue studies but also to join loved ones. If you are considering marriage to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a Dependant Visa through spousal sponsorship—a key component of Canada’s family reunification immigration stream. As of 2025, Canada has made further efforts to streamline and strengthen family sponsorship procedures, allowing faster processing and more inclusive requirements for both opposite- and same-sex couples.
The Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their foreign spouses, partners, or dependent children to immigrate to Canada as permanent residents. This process not only unites families but also grants the sponsored spouse the right to live, work, and study in Canada permanently. In many cases, the foreign spouse can also apply for an open work permit while their sponsorship application is being processed, providing financial independence and faster integration into Canadian society.
This 2025 guide will provide a complete and up-to-date breakdown of how to apply for a dependant visa through marriage to a Canadian. You’ll learn about the types of jobs available to immigrants, required documents, job search platforms, and key steps in the sponsorship application process. Whether you’re newly married or planning a life together with your Canadian partner, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the journey with confidence and clarity.
Entry Level Jobs for Immigrants
Once in Canada, foreign spouses who obtain an open work permit can explore various entry-level opportunities. These jobs provide a pathway to gain Canadian work experience, build income stability, and integrate into the workforce.
| Job Title | Industry | Average Salary (CAD) | Language Requirement | Eligible for Open Work Permit? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Associate | Retail | $32,000 – $38,000 | Basic–Intermediate English | Yes |
| Kitchen Assistant | Hospitality/Food | $30,000 – $35,000 | Basic English | Yes |
| Cleaner/Housekeeper | Facility Maintenance | $28,000 – $34,000 | Basic English | Yes |
| Warehouse Worker | Logistics | $32,000 – $40,000 | Basic English | Yes |
| Customer Service Agent | Call Centres/Retail | $34,000 – $42,000 | Intermediate English | Yes |
| Home Care Assistant | Health/Personal Care | $33,000 – $45,000 | Intermediate English | Yes |
| Delivery Driver | Transportation | $36,000 – $44,000 | Intermediate English | Yes (with valid driver’s license) |
| Receptionist | Administration | $34,000 – $40,000 | Intermediate English | Yes |
| Landscaping Laborer | Agriculture/Outdoor | $30,000 – $38,000 | Basic English | Yes |
| Hotel Front Desk Clerk | Hospitality/Tourism | $34,000 – $42,000 | Intermediate English | Yes |
These jobs are typically accessible within a few weeks of arrival, provided you’ve secured your open work permit. They serve as an important stepping stone to permanent careers or additional training in Canada.
Application Requirements and Documents
To bring your spouse or partner to Canada through spousal sponsorship, several eligibility criteria and documentation requirements must be fulfilled. Below is a breakdown of what’s required in 2025 for a Dependant Visa via marriage:
Eligibility Criteria
For the Sponsor (Canadian Citizen or PR):
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Must not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability.
- Must be able to provide for the basic needs of the sponsored person.
- Must not have sponsored a spouse within the past 5 years (exceptions may apply).
For the Sponsored Person (Spouse or Partner):
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be legally married to or in a common-law/conjugal relationship with the sponsor.
- Must pass medical, criminal, and security checks.
- Must provide all required documentation to prove the genuineness of the relationship.
Required Documents
Sponsor Documents:
- Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status.
- Government-issued ID.
- Employment letter or financial proof.
- Declaration of intent to reside in Canada (for citizens living abroad).
- Signed sponsorship undertaking form (IMM 1344).
Sponsored Spouse Documents:
- Valid passport.
- Birth certificate.
- Marriage certificate (or proof of common-law/conjugal relationship).
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where they lived for more than 6 months since age 18.
- Immigration medical exam results.
- Photos and other proof of relationship (travel history, chats, joint bank accounts, etc.).
Types of Applications
- Inland Sponsorship: For couples already living together in Canada. The foreign spouse can apply for an open work permit alongside.
- Outland Sponsorship: For spouses living outside Canada. The application is processed through the visa office of the applicant’s country.
Fees (2025)
- Sponsorship fee: CAD $75
- Principal applicant processing fee: CAD $515
- Right of permanent residence fee: CAD $570
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85
- Total: CAD $1,245 (approx.)
Processing times for spousal sponsorships in 2025 typically range from 8 to 12 months, depending on the completeness of the application and background checks.
Employment Websites to Find Opportunities
After securing an open work permit, newly sponsored spouses can begin searching for jobs through reliable Canadian job platforms. Here are some of the top websites to find employment opportunities:
- Job Bank Canada
- Government-run site listing jobs across provinces. Filters available for newcomers and language levels.
- Indeed Canada
- Canada’s largest job aggregator. Search for “entry-level” or “open work permit” jobs.
- Monster.ca
- Excellent for administrative, logistics, and customer support roles.
- Workopolis
- Offers resume-building tools and local job alerts.
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Professional networking platform. Ideal for long-term career development.
- Glassdoor Canada
- Job listings with company reviews, salary comparisons, and hiring insights.
- Eluta.ca
- Connects job seekers directly with Canadian employers.
- CanadaVisa Job Board
- Specifically created for immigrants, including those in the sponsorship process.
- Charity Village
- Great for those looking for work in the nonprofit or caregiving sectors.
- [Provincial Job Boards]
- Check local boards like Alberta Job Board, BC Jobs, or Ontario’s OINP listings for regional options.
When applying, always mention your open work permit status and availability. Many Canadian employers are familiar with dependant visa holders and their eligibility to work.
Conclusion
In 2025, marrying a Canadian citizen or permanent resident opens up a clear and compassionate path to Canadian residency under the Spouse or Partner Sponsorship Program. This program is one of the most generous and prioritized streams within the Canadian immigration system, underscoring the nation’s strong commitment to keeping families united. With the added benefit of open work permits and access to a wide range of job opportunities, foreign spouses can begin building their lives in Canada quickly and meaningfully.
From entry-level positions to skilled professions, Canada welcomes newcomers through inclusive policies and widespread support. However, success begins with preparation—understanding your eligibility, organizing your documents, and accessing credible job search tools. Following the correct legal pathways also reduces delays and ensures a smooth immigration experience.
Whether you’re already married or planning to tie the knot soon, this guide provides a roadmap to achieving your dream of living in Canada together. If you need personalized advice, consider consulting a licensed immigration consultant or visiting the official IRCC website for up-to-date resources.