Under new rules, all sponsored spouses are now full permanent residents as soon as they receive their permanent residence in Canada.

Under old rules in effect between 2012 and 2017, certain sponsored spouses were given only “conditional” permanent resident status for the first two years, and then they could only become full permanent residents after living with their sponsor for two years after receiving their permanent residence.

This has now changed for everyone.  Even if you were previously given “conditional” permanent residence, you are now a full permanent resident.  There is no extra requirement to live with your spouse for 2 years.

Please talk to an immigration lawyer if you have questions about this significant change to sponsorship rules, especially if you are currently being investigated by immigration because of the old rule.