Family sponsorship

Family sponsorship

Family sponsorship enables eligible sponsors to bring close relatives to Canada as permanent residents. The primary goal is to reunite families and provide support during their settlement.

Eligible Sponsors

To be an eligible sponsor, you must:

  • Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident: You must be living in Canada and have legal status.
  • Be at Least 18 Years Old: Sponsors must be adults to take on the responsibilities of sponsorship.
  • Meet Financial Requirements: You may need to demonstrate that you can provide for the basic needs of your family member, including food, shelter, and other necessities.
  • Not Be in Default: You must not be in default of any previous sponsorship undertakings or have been convicted of certain crimes.

Eligible Family Members

You can sponsor the following family members:

  • Spouse or Common-Law Partner
  • Dependent Children: Biological or adopted children under a certain age.
  • Parents and Grandparents
  • Orphaned Siblings, Nieces, or Nephews: Under 18 years old and not married.

Application Process

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure that both the sponsor and the applicant meet all eligibility requirements.

  2. Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents, including proof of relationship, identity documents, and financial information.

  3. Complete Application Forms: Fill out the appropriate application forms, which may include both sponsor and applicant forms.

  4. Pay Fees: Pay the required application fees.

  5. Submit Application: Send the completed application package to the appropriate immigration office.

  6. Processing and Decision: Applications can take several months to process. The immigration office will review the application and make a decision.