I am a Canadian citizen living in Ontario but working abroad. Can I still sponsor my spouse?

Canadian citizens who live abroad can sponsor their spouse in limited circumstances. The key requirement is that the citizen must intend to live in Canada when their sponsored spouse becomes a permanent resident. You will need to demonstrate that your plan to return is genuine — simply declaring an intention to return is not enough; IRCC will look at evidence such as maintained ties to Canada, property, employment, or family connections.

A Canadian citizen working abroad temporarily (on a fixed-term contract, for example) is in a stronger position than someone who has lived abroad for many years with no demonstrated Canadian connections. IRCC may ask for evidence that your move abroad is temporary and that your return plan is credible.

Permanent residents, by contrast, cannot sponsor from abroad — they must be residing in Canada at the time of the application. If you are a permanent resident working abroad, you will generally need to return to Canada to initiate the sponsorship. Given the complexity and the evidence requirements, Canadian citizens living outside Canada who wish to sponsor a spouse should consult an immigration lawyer before applying.