Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship is a key part of Canada’s immigration system, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada as permanent residents. Here’s a detailed guide on how family sponsorship works in Canada, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and other important considerations.
Family Sponsorship : Who Can Sponsor?
To be a sponsor, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Reside in Canada (or if you are a Canadian citizen living abroad, you must plan to return to Canada when your sponsored family member becomes a permanent resident).
- Not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability.
- Be able to provide for the basic needs of your relative (food, shelter, clothing) and support them financially.
Family Sponsorship : Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor the following relatives:
Spouse, Common-law Partner, or Conjugal Partner:
- Spouse: Legally married to you.
- Common-law partner: Lived with you for at least 12 consecutive months in a marital relationship.
- Conjugal partner: In a genuine relationship for at least one year but unable to live together due to circumstances beyond control (e.g., immigration barriers, marital status).
Dependent Children:
- Under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship.
- Over 22 years old and dependent on you financially due to a physical or mental condition.
Parents and Grandparents (through the Parent and Grandparent Program – PGP):
- Specific application periods with a lottery system due to high demand.
Other Relatives:
- Orphaned brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren under 18 and not married or in a common-law relationship.
- One relative of any age if you do not have any other eligible relatives you could sponsor.
Sponsorship Process
1. Check Eligibility
Ensure both you (the sponsor) and your relative (the applicant) meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Obtain and Complete Application Packages
Download the appropriate application package from the IRCC website. The package includes:
- Document checklists.
- Application forms.
- Instruction guides.
3. Gather Required Documents
Prepare and collect all required documents, including:
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Proof of sponsor’s status in Canada (e.g., citizenship or permanent resident card).
- Proof of income (for some types of sponsorships).
4. Submit the Application
Mail the completed application package to the address specified in the instruction guide. Ensure all forms are signed and dated.
5. Provide Biometrics
If required, your sponsored family member will need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated application center.
6. Processing and Communication
IRCC will process the application and may request additional information or documents. Stay in touch and provide any requested information promptly.
7. Decision
Once the application is processed, IRCC will notify you of the decision. If approved, your relative will receive instructions on how to complete the immigration process and obtain permanent residence.
Family sponsorship in Canada is a way for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their loved ones to Canada. By meeting eligibility criteria and following the proper application process, you can help your family members obtain permanent residence and reunite in Canada. Always refer to the latest guidelines from IRCC to ensure a smooth and successful sponsorship process.
Schedule a meeting
Let’s discuss the details
Schedule a meeting at one of the offices or online. A lawyer will analyze the situation, calculate the cost and help you find a solution based on your goals.
- Preparation of documents
- Due Diligence
