This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor a spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada. Both the sponsor and sponsored person must be approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to receive a visa. The sponsor and sponsored person must prove that their relationship qualifies under one of three categories: spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner. Canada recognizes same-sex marriage, and same-sex partners may be eligible to apply under any of the above three categories, provided they meet all eligibility requirements.