It depends on the application. If you have outland dependents, they also needs to be approved with you in order for the application to get finalized. This means the spouse documents (passport + photo + passport request letter) must be approved and then the COPR will be issued.
This is what has been written on top of the passport request letter of my spouse:
The processing of your application for permanent residence in Canada is almost complete. Your dependent must complete the following steps within 30 days in order for our office to issue your Confirmation of Permanent Residence and, if applicable, your permanent residence visa.