Does my spouse have to give biometrics as part of the sponsorship process?

Yes. Most sponsored spouses are required to provide biometrics — fingerprints and a digital photograph — as part of the federal permanent residence application process. Biometrics are collected at a designated collection site in your spouse's country of residence or, if they are already in Canada, at a Service Canada or designated IRCC location.

Once biometrics are provided, they are valid for ten years or until a travel document (such as a passport) expires, whichever comes first — meaning your spouse may not need to give them again if they have done so recently for a prior Canadian visa or permit application.

IRCC will send a biometric instruction letter once the application is received, telling your spouse where and when to attend. Your spouse must attend in person — biometrics cannot be submitted remotely. Countries whose nationals are exempt from biometrics are listed on the IRCC website and the list changes periodically. Check current requirements when preparing your application and budget for the biometrics fee, which is set federally.