Incomplete Spousal Sponsorship Application

Incomplete Spousal Sponsorship Application

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Incomplete Spousal Sponsorship Application: What to Do Next

Has your Canadian spousal sponsorship application been returned by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) due to incompleteness? Don’t worry, this is common for self-represented individuals. Hiring an expert for a consultation or representation will help you overcome any immigration hurdles.

Incomplete applications are sent back along with a letter explaining the reasons for the return and a checklist of missing documents. Once you receive your returned application, carefully review the letter and checklist provided by IRCC. Gather the missing documents and ensure all required information is complete before resubmitting your application. Double-check everything to avoid another return.

At MM Immigration Law, we understand the complexities of the spousal sponsorship process. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your application is complete and accurate. Hire an expert spousal sponsorship lawyer to reunite your family.

What to Do After Receiving Your Incomplete Spousal Sponsorship Application from IRCC


Once you receive your incomplete spousal sponsorship application, carefully go through the accompanying letter and document checklist. This will help you understand why your application was returned and what elements were missing.

When you’re ready to resubmit your spousal sponsorship application, make sure to include any documents or information that were missing in your initial submission. You can include all documents and payment receipts from your first application in your resubmission, as long as all signatures are still valid. If any signatures have expired, you’ll need to complete, sign, and date new forms.

Next, write a letter to IRCC detailing any changes or updates to your information.

If your spousal sponsorship application was missing documents when it was returned and you’re unable to provide the documents that IRCC initially requested, you should explain why in your letter.

Remember to include the explanatory letter and document checklist that you received from IRCC when you resubmit your spousal sponsorship application.

Express Entry
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Essential Points to Remember When Resubmitting an Incomplete Spousal Sponsorship Application to IRCC


When resubmitting an incomplete spousal sponsorship application, keep the following key points in mind:

  1. Revisit the application guide to check for any changes since your initial submission.
  2. If you received your returned spousal sponsorship application by email, you can find the steps for resubmission here.
  3. Ensure that IRCC receives your resubmitted spousal sponsorship application within 90 days of signing; the signature date on the new application should not be postdated.

Please note that the processing time for resubmitted spousal sponsorship applications starts from the day IRCC receives the completed application.

Why It’s Crucial to Submit a Complete Spousal Sponsorship Application to IRCC

IRCC provides a completeness checklist to all spousal sponsorship applicants to ensure that every application they receive is ready for processing. This highlights the importance of submitting a complete spousal sponsorship application to IRCC.

Therefore, it’s vital to double-check that your spousal sponsorship application is complete to avoid the need to restart the Express Entry process with a new profile if your first application is returned as incomplete.

SUCCESS – Accepted for processing : Acknowledgement of Receipt


If the Application is deemed to be complete and accepted for processing at the intial stage, you will receive an ‘Acknowledgment of Receipt’ or AOR.

  • AOR Meaning: The AOR is a confirmation from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that your spousal sponsorship application is received and ready for processing. It’s not an approval but a crucial first step.
  • Importance of AOR: Your AOR contains your unique application number, essential for tracking and correspondence. Keep this document safe as it’s vital for the entire spousal sponsorship journey.
  • Next Steps After AOR: Link your application to your online IRCC account for updates. Promptly respond to IRCC requests and inform them of any changes in your circumstances.
  • Processing Stages: The spousal sponsorship process has two main stages: sponsor eligibility and applicant admissibility. Prepare for background checks, medical exams, and possibly an interview.
  • AOR Timeline: Expect the AOR within a few weeks to months after submission, but this can vary. It marks the start of the official processing time for your spousal sponsorship application.

Remember, the AOR is just the beginning. Patience and attention to detail will guide you through the spousal sponsorship process.

2024
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Why Hire an Immigration Lawyer

Immigration is a dynamic and complex system that requires careful planning and preparation. By hiring an immigration lawyer, you can benefit from their expertise and guidance throughout the process. Here are some of the advantages of working with an immigration lawyer:

  • An immigration lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes or provide misleading information on your application that could lead to application denial or a five-year ban.
  • An immigration lawyer can help you find the proper forms to fill out, guide you through the process, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
  • An immigration lawyer can help you identify the best program or stream for your occupation and skills, and help you apply for it.
  • An immigration lawyer can help you prepare your application and documents to ensure that you meet the deadlines and criteria.
  • An immigration lawyer can help you spot errors made by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and advise you on the next steps.
  • An immigration lawyer can help you appeal an unfavorable decision and represent you in court if necessary.

Hiring an immigration lawyer is not a requirement, but it can make a big difference in your outcome. An immigration lawyer can save you time, money, and stress, and increase your chances of becoming a permanent resident of Canada.

If you are interested in hiring an immigration lawyer, you can contact us at MM Immigration Law and we will be happy to assist you. We have extensive experience and knowledge in Canadian immigration law, and we have helped thousands of clients achieve their immigration goals. We offer a reasonable fee for our services. Contact us today and let us help you with your Express Entry application. 🍁

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