"Love Across Borders Meets Quebec’s Pause: What Spousal Sponsorship 2025 Applicants Must Know "

Spousal Sponsorship 2025 spotlights: For couples navigating Canada’s immigration system, Quebec has always added its own unique layer of complexity. In 2025, that complexity has taken center stage with a policy shift that could change timelines—and even strategies—for spousal sponsorship applicants in the province.

1. Quebec’s 2025 Moratorium on Certain Family Sponsorships

On July 9, 2025, Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) announced it had reached the annual cap for new undertakings to sponsor certain family members. This cap affects:

• Spouses

• Common-law and conjugal partners

• Dependent children aged 18 or older

No new applications will be accepted until June 25, 2026.

This freeze is unprecedented for the spousal category in Quebec and has left many couples scrambling for options.

2. Why Quebec Handles Sponsorship Differently

Unlike other provinces, Quebec requires two levels of approval:

1. Federal eligibility assessment by IRCC.

2. A provincial undertaking application to MIFI.

Both must be approved for the sponsored spouse to obtain permanent residence. With the cap reached, no provincial undertakings can be filed, halting the process even if IRCC would otherwise approve.

3. Options for Affected Couples

While the moratorium may seem like a dead end, there are possible strategies:

• Relocation to another province before applying, if feasible.

• Temporary residence permits (such as study or work permits) for the spouse to remain in Canada legally during the pause.

• Out-of-country applications, timed to submit the Quebec undertaking once the cap reopens.

Each option has legal and practical considerations, making professional advice essential.

4. Preparing for the 2026 Reopening

If you intend to sponsor through Quebec once the moratorium lifts:

• Gather all relationship evidence (photos, communication history, joint documents) now.

• Secure a stable income to meet Quebec’s financial criteria.

• Track MIFI updates closely—reopening dates and caps can shift.

Expert Insight

As an immigration consultant, I’ve seen how Quebec’s added steps can catch applicants off guard, even in normal years. In 2025, the moratorium means careful planning is not just thoughtful—it’s non-negotiable. Couples must weigh the options of relocation, temporary permits, or strategic timing to minimize the time apart.

Actionable Steps

• Confirm if your application falls under the affected categories.

• Explore relocation or temporary status options with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

• Keep your relationship documentation updated and organized.

• Follow both IRCC and MIFI announcements for any policy changes.

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Spousal Sponsorship 2025)