January 20, 2026
Throughout the last year, we published several new resources on family sponsorship in Canada. These materials were adapted from content previously maintained by Legal Aid BC.
"I came to a women's shelter not knowing what my options were. The staff gave me a copy of People’s Law School’s sponsorship booklet. Reading it at my own pace helped me understand that I had rights, even though my immigration papers weren't finalized yet. It gave me the information I needed to start planning for my future and my safety."
– Chen, Vancouver, BC
Family sponsorship brings hope for building a life together in Canada. But sometimes relationships change in unexpected ways. When sponsorship situations become difficult, people often have urgent questions about their rights, obligations, and options. These materials provide clear, accessible information to help people understand their situation and make informed decisions:
If Your Sponsorship Breaks Down (print booklet): This guide explains what happens when a sponsorship relationship ends, including impacts on immigration status, financial obligations, and access to income assistance. It covers the responsibilities of sponsors, options for sponsored individuals, and where to find help.
What happens when a sponsorship breaks down (web page): A companion to the print booklet, this more specific page provides an overview of the legal and practical implications of sponsorship breakdown situations, including information on financial support, immigration consequences, and next steps for both parties. It includes relatable user stories and step-by-step guidance.
Sponsoring a spouse or partner (web page): This page walks through the process of sponsoring a spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada. It explains a key legal document — the undertaking — and explores how long sponsorship obligations last.
When abuse puts your immigration status at risk (web page): This resource addresses the specific concerns of sponsored individuals experiencing abuse in their relationship. It covers options for leaving an abusive sponsor, how abuse may affect immigration status, and safety planning considerations.
These resources feature in our coverage of immigrating to Canada. For immediate, on-call, and completely anonymous help, advocates and the BC public can also ask our chatbot, Beagle+, for information and guidance on sponsorship issues.