What is a sponsorship undertaking?
An undertaking is a binding promise to the government to financially support the person you sponsor and repay any social assistance they receive during the undertaking period. It is signed as part of the sponsorship application.
How long does a spousal sponsorship undertaking last?
Outside Quebec, sponsoring a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner carries a 3-year undertaking. In Quebec the period is also 3 years for a spouse but differs for other relatives.
How long is the undertaking for parents and grandparents?
Sponsoring a parent or grandparent carries a 20-year undertaking outside Quebec (10 years in Quebec), reflecting the longer expected period of financial responsibility.
Can I cancel an undertaking after a divorce?
No. The undertaking remains legally binding for its full term even if you separate or divorce, if the sponsored person becomes a citizen, or if your financial situation changes.